Police Contract Approved

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January 26, 2023
Yesterday, the General Assembly held its first Session since opening day. The bulk of our discussion surrounded the new four-year Connecticut State Police Contract that I had the privilege of bringing out.
 
Over the last few months, the legislature has worked in a bipartisan and collaborative effort with the Governor and police union to draft this agreement with an emphasis on retention and recruitment.
 
Discussing upcoming bills with the Republican ranking member on my committee, Dave Rutigliano (R-Trumbull)
 
Over the last few years, we have seen an estimated 400-officer decline, as many young officers are cited leaving for neighboring municipalities offering salaries anywhere from $15,000 to $18,000 more. The intent behind this agreement is to increase recruitment and promote retention by not only raising the starting pay for recruits, but also guaranteeing annual benefits:
  • Raise starting pay for recruits
  • 2.5% general wage increases for each of its first three years
  • A retroactive $3,500 bonus
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Read the full agreement here

We also make crystal clear in this agreement that issues like investigations into civilian complaints, and other disciplinary outcomes, are subject to public disclosure and review under our Freedom of Information Act. The power to enforce our laws is a great responsibility that must remain subject to oversight. I was proud to see the near unanimous bipartisan support and believe that this agreement shows both current state police officers and those looking to join the force that our state recognizes all their hard work and sacrifice.