Rep. Michael Meredith Pre-Files Bill to Provide Needed Increases for Police, Firefighters and Volunteer Fire Departments

(Edmonson Voice file photo)

FRANKFORT, Ky. (October 26, 2016) – This week, Rep. Michael Meredith, R-Brownsville, pre-filed a bill that seeks to make permanent increases in supplemental incentives for law enforcement officers, firefighters and volunteer fire departments. During the 2016 Regular Session, the General Assembly passed budget language increasing incentive pay for qualified police officers and firefighters from $3,000 to $4,000 annually.  The language also increased state aid funding for qualifying volunteer fire departments from $8250 each year to $11,000. If passed, B.R. 300 would make these increases permanent.
 
“Police officers and firefighters work selflessly to ensure our communities are safe,” said Rep. Meredith. “Current times present many life threatening situations for our public safety workers and volunteers. I firmly believe we must adequately compensate law enforcement officers and firefighters and provide the best equipment possible for those volunteering to serve our communities.”
 
As our country sees a rise in line of duty deaths of law enforcement officers, pay raises for those who put themselves in harm’s way while on the job are becoming more necessary. In response, Rep. Meredith’s bill makes public safety a priority. 
 
“Our public safety officials have not seen significant pay raises that their families deserve,” added Rep. Meredith.  “This bill seeks to solve this problem and ensure that we retain and continue to attract the best people to fill these important roles.” 
 
The 2017 Regular Session begins in January.

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