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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Re-ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House2026-04-30

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill provides approximately $40.5 million in annual pay raises for State Highway Patrol officers and staff, establishes new secondary employment policies for troopers, encourages retired officers to return to work, and appropriates funds for bulletproof glass in patrol vehicles and infrastructure improvements at the Huntersville station.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue that competitive salaries are necessary to recruit and retain qualified law enforcement officers in a competitive job market.
• •They contend that allowing secondary employment helps officers supplement income while meeting their financial needs, and that bulletproof glass protects officer safety.
• •Supporters also view updating hiring policies to encourage retired officers' return as a cost-effective way to fill staffing gaps while retaining experienced personnel.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may question whether the state can afford $40+ million in annual compensation increases during budget constraints, and whether these funds could be better allocated elsewhere.
• •Some may worry that secondary employment policies could distract officers from their primary duties or create conflicts of interest.
• •Critics might also argue that the spending priorities—such as specific infrastructure projects—should be subject to broader budget review rather than dedicated funding.