The proposed bill, titled the Correctional and Probation Officer Fairness Act, aims to enhance the compensation and operational roles of correctional officers, correctional probation officers, and institutional security specialists in Florida. Starting July 1, 2030, the minimum annual base pay for these positions will be set at no less than $60,000. Additionally, the Department of Management Services is mandated to submit an annual compensation analysis report to the Governor and Legislature beginning in 2027, which will assess progress towards this pay standard and include relevant turnover and vacancy statistics. Furthermore, beginning with the 2026-2027 fiscal year, these employees will receive an annual pay increase of at least 4.5%, in addition to any other bonuses or merit increases.

The bill also amends section 252.36 of Florida Statutes to allow the Governor to authorize correctional officers, probation officers, and security specialists to assist with law enforcement operations during declared state or federal emergencies. To qualify for this role, officers must be actively employed, certified by the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission, and have a minimum of five years of continuous service. The Governor is granted the authority to renew the executive order for these emergency roles in 30-day increments as necessary. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.