Wisconsin Governor Announces Pay Increase for Correctional Officers

Monday, March 14th, 2022 -- 10:01 AM

(WBAY) Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has announced a pay increase for correctional officers and other state security workers.

Evers says the $3 per hour raise is for correctional officers, sergeants, psychiatric care technicians, youth counselors and related supervisors. It began March 13th.

The raise is in response to high vacancy rates at Wisconsin Department of Corrections and Wisconsin Department of Health Services institutions. The staffing crisis has been costing taxpayers millions of dollars.

“I cannot begin to convey to you the frustration, the anger and the bitterness felt among our ranks,” Sgt. Paul Oosterhouse, Department of Corrections employee told lawmakers at a hearing.

More than 5,000 employees will receive the pay increase. The pay increase is an add-on to the 2021-2023 State of Wisconsin Compensation Plan. The increase will continue through June 17, 2023, unless there is an extension approved.

The governor says the increase will be agency-funded with some use of American Rescue Plan Act funds.

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