FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kellyn Harrison, Press Secretary
kellyn.harrison@iga.in.gov
317-232-9498
STATEHOUSE (Jan. 9, 2023) – State Sen. Chris Garten (R-Charlestown) will be spearheading efforts to increase compensation for the Indiana State Police (ISP) this session.
Senate Republicans have included increasing ISP pay in their 2023 caucus agenda.
The caucus aims to increase wages for ISP officers and alter the pay matrix from 20 years (the current timeline) to 15 years so they see a significantly faster salary increase throughout their careers.
"If you are a dedicated member of the Indiana State Police or one of our Department of Natural Resources Conservation Officers, know this – Senate Republicans hear you, Senate Republicans appreciate you and Senate Republicans are committed to ensuring you are compensated at a level that mirrors your service, sacrifice, professionalism and commitment to the great state of Indiana," Garten said.
According to the Indiana State Police Alliance, state troopers are among the lowest-paid law enforcement professionals in the state. Yet, ISP recruits commit to completing twice the number of hours of basic and specialized training and must be willing to relocate and serve wherever duty calls.
"Rising prices due to inflation coupled with steep labor market constraints and increased risks from simply donning the uniform have come together to create the perfect storm," Garten said. "But through all this, let it be heard loud and clear that the one thing that remains unchanged is the Senate Republican Caucus' commitment to standing with our law enforcement professionals and ensuring their compensation is a reflection of their commitment to keeping Hoosiers safe. I couldn't be more excited about spearheading this initiative for not only our caucus, but ISP officers around the state."
The Indiana General Assembly reconvened for session Jan. 9 and must conclude legislative business on or before April 29, 2023. Committee hearings, legislative calendars, agendas, vote tallies and proposed legislation can be viewed online by visiting iga.in.gov.
For more information about the Senate Republicans' 2023 legislative priorities, visit www.IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/news-releases.
To view a transcript of Garten's remarks, visit https://bit.ly/3GuW18O.
Senate Majority Floor Leader Chris Garten (R-Charlestown) details the Senate Republican Caucus' state budget priority to increase pay for the Indiana State Police at the Statehouse Monday, Jan. 9.
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State Sen. Chris Garten (R-Charlestown) represents Senate District 45,
which includes Clark County and portions of Floyd County.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo of Garten.
