West Virginia State Senator John Unger (D-Berkeley), along with Senate Finance Chairman Walt Helmick (D-Pocahontas), succeeded in securing $1 million for the enhancement of State Police barracks in Martinsburg, WV. Senators Unger and Helmick met with State Police Superintendent Colonel Dave Lemmon on February 21 to determine the amount of additional funding needed, which was estimated to be between $400,000 and $800,000. “It is vital that we continue to support the essential efforts and contributions of the men and women of the State Police,” said Senator Unger. “And I am both pleased and optimistic that we were able to acquire this money for the development of the Martinsburg barracks and for the continued enrichment of law enforcement in the Eastern Panhandle.” Also during the meeting, they discussed upgrading the State Police Retirement System Plan B by reducing the retirement age. Additionally, they discussed pushing pay raises for State Troopers and ways to ensure the State Police has adequate funding for compensation of overtime. The Senate is also working on a measure that would provide a one-time across the board salary increase of $1,200 per year for civilian employees of the State Police. “Officers of the State Police provide invaluable services and security to the citizens of West Virginia and as state lawmakers, it is our duty to recognize this through more than mere words,” stated Senator Unger. “By providing them with the compensation they deserve and ensuring solvency in their retirement plans, we recognize the outstanding service our State Police provides for the security and welfare of our community. ### |
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