Governor Proposes 5% Pay Cut for All State Employees – No DPS Lay-Offs

Governor Jan Brewer announced her plan last Friday to help resolve the current Arizona budget deficit.  The plan includes a 5% pay reduction for all state employees for 2010 and 2011, along with service cuts for state departments.  The proposal did not include further operating cuts to the Department of Public Safety (DPS).

The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) recognizes and appreciates that the Governor protected public safety in her budget cut recommendations, and that no DPS employee will be laid off.  However, the association is concerned about how the pay decrease will affect their member’s livelihood and morale, and does not support it.

“We understand that the budget shortfalls are unprecedented,” states Sgt. Jimmy Chavez, President of the AHPA.  “But a pay decrease does make or break some DPS employee’s family.  We are worried how some of our employees are going to get by.”

The AHPA will continue to work with the Governor’s office and the legislature to find resources and revenues to assist in restoring the proposed salary cut.

Founded in 1958, the AHPA’s mission is to promote the positive role of Law Enforcement Professionals, and to protect and secure rights and benefits for their members through effective representation with local, state and national governments.

Article written by/or information provided by AHPA