FLORIDA PBA MEMBERS EXPECTED TO SEE BIG GAINS IN GOVERNOR RON DESANTIS’ NEW BUDGET PROPOSAL, WHICH PROVIDES SIGNIFICANT FUNDING FOR PAY RAISES AND OTHER ENHANCED BENEFITS
Commenting on the Governor’s new budget proposal, Florida PBA President John Kazanjian said, “I’m very pleased to report that this new legislative session is off to a great start, particularly with Governor Ron DeSantis’ new budget proposal that prioritizes the needs of many of our members. Thanks to our advocacy and the relationships we have forged with the Governor and with key legislative leaders, our members are on pace to see big gains this year. I want to thank our entire leadership team for their work in ensuring our priorities were addressed in the Governor’s proposed budget. I also want to express our gratitude to Representative Danny Alvarez and Senator Joe Gruters for sponsoring the PBA’s long overdue “Bill of Rights” legislation. We will be actively lobbying the legislative leadership team and Committee Chairs to pass this legislation and to adopt the Governor’s budget proposals.”
Below Are Highlights of the Governor’s Proposed Budget:
- Governor DeSantis proposed a one-time COLA increase of 4% effective October 1, 2023 for all retirees who retired prior to June 30, 2022. Although the 4% COLA is only a onetime increase, the adjusted monthly benefit amount will not decrease in the new fiscal year. Included in his proposal is an increase to 20% to the employer’s contribution rate for special risk investment plan members.
- Every eligible state employee will receive a 5% increase to their base salary as of June 30, 2023.
- In addition to the five percent pay increase provided to all state employees, $3.4 million will provide a targeted retention pay plan for Correctional Officers and Correctional Probation Officers. This funding aims to increase retention rates by providing a $1,000 pay increase at two years of service, a $500 pay increase at five years of service, and a $1,000 pay increase at eight years of service. The Governor also adds Correctional Officers at the local and state level to the DROP extension.
- State Law Enforcement Officers will see their base starting salary increase to $55,000 annually.
- Each state bargaining unit will see compression pay and longevity pay increases.
