Governor Herbert released his proposed budget on December 6, 2018. His recommendations included a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for state employees, .5% targeted and discretionary funding for high performance employees (click here to see the full list of targeted positions), funding for the 4.35% health insurance increase, funding for the increase in the Traditional 401(k) match, and a 1% one-time bonus or 401(k)/457 contribution for high performing employees.
UPEA’s executive director Todd Losser stated, “The Governor’s proposed budget is a guideline and should always be viewed as a beginning for future discussions. There are questions about how the targeted funding and the one-time bonus will be distributed. There are also questions about how many employees are eligible and the guidelines for determining who are the high performing employees.”
As final budget numbers are released in mid-February UPEA’s lobbying efforts, and the input of state employees will continue to be at the forefront of conversations with lawmakers.
State employee compensation should be a priority with the governor’s office and legislators. This year’s budget proposal is an increase over last years. Losser also indicated, “that UPEA is the only advocate and voice for public employees. Without the hard work of staff and members public employees might not have seen the steady increases in pay over the past few years. UPEA makes sure compensation is a priority and meets year-round with the governor’s office, legislators, and other policy makers.”
Please be advised that UPEA will send you periodic updates throughout the session on the status of bills. We are currently tracking legislation that may require you to contact your legislator.