http://newiprogressive.com/images/stories/S5/wi-state-patrol-troopers-s5.pngAmidst staffing shortages, Legislative Republicans have refused to approve a state contract with a wage increase for Wisconsin's top law enforcement agency.

MADISON, WI – The Joint Committee on Employment Relations that oversees employee compensation plans and contracts with represented state employees met to consider the 2019-2021 Compensation Plan. Senate Democratic Leader Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse) and Assembly Democratic Leader Gordon Hintz (D-Oshkosh) released the following statements after legislative Republicans refused to approve a state contract for Wisconsin State Troopers:

“Wisconsin State Troopers work tirelessly and put their lives on the line every day to keep families and communities safe,” said Senate Democratic Leader Jennifer Shilling (D-La Crosse). “For years, State Troopers haven’t seen a wage increase because Republicans have prioritized tax breaks for the wealthy and large corporations. Rather than short changing our law enforcement officers and jeopardizing public safety, Democrats want to make sure these Troopers are fairly compensated for the heroic work they do.”

“We look to our State Patrol officers to keep the public safe. Without fairly compensating them, we risk losing quality in public safety and the ability to retain and recruit future patrol officers,” said Assembly Democratic Leader Gordon Hintz (D-Oshkosh). “Wisconsin is already facing a variety of workforce demographic issues, and I am disappointed with the Republican inaction and lack of support for Wisconsin State Troopers.”

State Patrol Leaders have expressed concern with the ability to recruit and retain officers at the current level of starting wages. Law enforcement continues to be one of the most dangerous professions and a recent news report highlighted significant recruitment and retention challenges in the State Patrol.