A new bill proposed in Mississippi could offer a monthly supplemental pay to law enforcement officers across the state if it successfully passes through legislation.
Introduced this week by District 85 Representative Jefferey Harness, House Bill 745 aims to provide an additional $600 per month in supplemental pay to all certified officers in Mississippi who have completed at least one year of service.
The potential impact of the bill is significant, particularly for county sheriffs who face challenges in retaining and hiring new officers. Adams County Sheriff Travis Patten highlighted the struggles faced by law enforcement agencies in Mississippi due to low pay, noting that neighboring states like Louisiana have long implemented state supplements to address similar issues.
Sheriff Patten expressed optimism about the proposed bill, emphasizing its potential to address recruitment and retention challenges, especially in smaller counties. He stressed the importance of providing tangible support to law enforcement officers, particularly considering Mississippi’s current status as the state with the lowest average annual salary for police officers, according to data cited in the article.
If enacted, the bill would represent a substantial boost in income for officers, potentially alleviating financial burdens and reducing the need for officers to seek additional employment to make ends meet.
While discussions about supplemental pay for law enforcement are not new, Sheriff Patten underscored the urgency of passing HB 745 to prevent further loss of officers to better-paying opportunities in other states.
The fate of HB 745 now rests with the state legislature, where its potential impact on law enforcement retention and recruitment efforts will be deliberated in the coming weeks.