FISCAL NOTE

Date Requested: February 23, 2015
Time Requested: 02:14 PM
Agency: State Police, West Virginia
CBD Number: Version: Bill Number: Resolution Number:
3209 Introduced SB549
CBD Subject: Public Safety


FUND(S):

0453, 6505, 8741

Sources of Revenue:

General Fund,Special Fund,Other Fund 8741 Federal

Legislation creates:

Neither Program nor Fund



Fiscal Note Summary


Effect this measure will have on costs and revenues of state government.


The West Virginia State Police Forensic Laboratory (WVSPFL) is the only full service forensic laboratory in West Virginia. The salary schedule and career progression system will allow the West Virginia State Police (WVSP) to retain analysts and ensure the most efficient use of state dollars for forensic services, currently provided by the WVSP to over 800 law enforcement agencies. Over the last 10 years, the WVSPFL has failed to retain 41% of its approximately 40 analysts and technicians. This failure in retention has cost the State close to $2 million in training costs alone. The backlog that has resulted from staff turnover, currently at an all-time high of 3700 cases, is estimated to be costing the state $13 million annually due to delays in the criminal justice system and associated regional jail costs. The staff losses have left the laboratory with none of it eight forensic disciplines fully staffed and trained. The majority of analysts who have resigned are trained and experienced analysts who terminate employment with our laboratory for more attractive positions with appealing career progression plans. The proposed salary schedule and career progression system for the WVSPFL would enhance recruitment and encourage retention leading to efficient operations and service.



Fiscal Note Detail


Effect of Proposal Fiscal Year
2015
Increase/Decrease
(use"-")
2016
Increase/Decrease
(use"-")
Fiscal Year
(Upon Full
Implementation)
1. Estmated Total Cost 0 484,904 556,252
Personal Services 0 481,167 551,935
Current Expenses 0 3,737 4,317
Repairs and Alterations 0 0 0
Assets 0 0 0
Other 0 0 0
2. Estimated Total Revenues 0 0 0


Explanation of above estimates (including long-range effect):


For FY2016 Increases are as follows: General Revenue: $454,449 Special Non-Appropriated: $5,634 Federal Funds: $24,821 These costs are associated with salary increases for laboratory personnel to reach the New Base Pay as set forth in this piece of legislation. FY 2017 costs are calculated as an increase from current level salaries and are funded as follows based on anticipated career progression: General Revenue: 525,797 Special Non-Appropriated: $5,634 Federal Funds: $24,821 The calculations were made without taking into consideration possible staffing changes within the laboratory section.



Memorandum






    Person submitting Fiscal Note: Connie E Gundy, Comptroller
    Email Address: connie.e.gundy@wvsp.gov