This bill aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new section, 5-5-4c, which focuses on providing pay equity salary adjustments for employees of the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. The Legislature recognizes the challenges faced in recruiting and retaining employees in this division and mandates a salary adjustment for all employees, regardless of their work location. Specifically, full-time equivalent non-uniform administrative staff who have three or more years of continuous employment will receive a three percent salary increase effective July 1, 2025. New employees and those with less than three years of service will also be eligible for the same adjustment once they reach the three-year mark.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that funding for these salary adjustments will come from general revenue appropriations to the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. It clarifies that if any part of this section conflicts with existing rules or provisions, this new section will take precedence. The bill also ensures that employees receiving the pay raise may exceed the maximum allowable salary for their pay grade without affecting the implementation of the increase. Overall, the legislation seeks to enhance the compensation structure for employees in the Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation to improve retention and recruitment efforts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-5-4c