Bill S.58, introduced by Senator Brennan, aims to establish a step pay plan for law enforcement officers employed by the Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Department of Liquor and Lottery, and the Department of Motor Vehicles, as well as for firefighters employed by the State of Vermont. The proposed legislation mandates that these employees can reach the highest step of their applicable pay grade after 18 years and six months of service. Additionally, the bill allows for collective bargaining representatives to negotiate the specifics of the pay plan, including the number of steps, duration in each step, and conditions for advancement.

The bill includes transitional provisions for those whose current pay plans do not meet the new requirements by January 1, 2025. These individuals will be transitioned to a compliant pay plan by July 1, 2025, and will be placed one step higher than they would have been under the previous plan. The State is also required to engage in negotiations with the Vermont State Employees Association to implement these changes. The act is set to take effect upon passage and will apply to all collective bargaining agreements for State employees that commence on or after July 1, 2025.