Governor Parson Proposes Salary Increase for State Workers

Jan. 25, 2024

Corrections team:

As you may know, in yesterday's State of the State address, Governor Mike Parson outlined his administration's legislative priorities and budget proposals for the coming fiscal year.

I’m happy to announce that the Governor’s recommendations include a 3.2% cost-of-living salary increase for all state team members! If this recommendation passes the Missouri General Assembly and is signed into law, the new pay raise will take effect in FY 2025, which begins July 1, 2024.

As you know, Missouri Department of Corrections leaders have been working hard for years to secure both a better workplace culture and better salaries for our team. If approved, this latest proposal will bring the state’s total investment in pay increases for corrections staff since 2017 to $199.3 million!

The new pay plan would mean a salary increase for corrections staff in all positions. For example, it would bring starting salaries to $42,628 for Correctional Officer I (COI) positions, to $34,999 for Office Support Assistant (OSA) positions, to $46,834 for Probation and Parole Officer positions, and to $46,834 for Case Manager (CCM) positions. All staff will continue to receive a 1% pay increase for every two years of service up to 20 years. Eligible staff also will continue to receive a $2-per-hour shift differential.

In addition to this welcome pay proposal for staff, the Governor has recommended funding for other priorities affecting the department. These proposals include:

• $13.1 million in funding for a modernized offender management system that would improve information sharing and mobile capabilities while consolidating the functions of several outdated applications
• $14.5 million for air conditioning expansion
• $7.3 million in expenses and equipment operating funds for our institutions and the field
• $234.3 million for the Facilities Maintenance Reserve Fund, helping to better maintain, repair and renovate state facilities

The theme of this year’s State of the State address is “Putting People First,” and the difficult work you do every day, for the wellbeing of Missourians in your care and the safety of all citizens in our communities, reinforces this fundamental principle of public service. I’m grateful that Governor Parson also has consistently put you first, working with our executive team and the General Assembly to make sure you get the resources, compensation and appreciation you deserve.

We will keep you posted as the pay plan advances through the legislative process.

Thank you for all you do. Take care of each other.

Trevor Foley
Acting Director

• See the Budget in Brief Book
• Watch the State of the State address