The bill introduced on January 14, 2026, aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 15-2D-6, which addresses salary adjustments for employees of the Division of Protective Services, commonly known as the Capitol Police. The legislation recognizes the challenges faced by the Capitol Police in retaining employees and mandates a pay equity salary adjustment for all employees working at Capitol Complex properties. Specifically, it outlines a structured pay increase of $5,000 for all Capitol police officers and support staff, starting on July 1, 2026, with subsequent increases for police officers in the following years until 2029.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that funding for these salary increases will be sourced from the Capitol Police general revenue appropriations. It also includes a provision that clarifies this new section will take precedence over any conflicting rules or policies, emphasizing that the intent of the Legislature is to ensure no private cause of action arises from the implementation of this section. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance the compensation of Capitol Police employees to improve retention and morale within the division.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-2D-6