On Friday, March 6, 2020, the Executive Appropriations Standing Committee approved a 3% COLA for state employees with an additional 2% for Targeted “Hot Spot” Funding. The Committee also approved funding to cover the employer’s share for the $6.8 million public employee health insurance increase.
Over the past year, the Governor’s Office has worked with DHRM and agency leadership to compile a list of Discretionary and Targeted Compensation Increases by Agency; these are positions within the state that are substantially below-market. Gov. Herbert included funding equivalent to a 1% General Increase, or roughly 
$7.5 million, to fund this list in his FY 2021 budget recommendations. During each session, legislators may adopt, amend, or dismiss the recommendations for targeted compensation. This year, the Executive Appropriations Committee has doubled the Governor’s recommendation and approved a 2% targeted compensation increase. This appropriations also includes funding for the next year in the Certified Officer Career Plan.
Prior to the 2020 Legislative Session, the Governor’s budget included a 2.5% increase for state employee compensation. Despite the restricted budget, your support in contacting your legislators ensured that state employee compensation was prioritized and resulted in increased funding.
Over the past several weeks, UPEA staff has been speaking with Senators and Representatives individually to encourage their support for a substantial pay increase; however, assistance from our members has been critical in the success of this bill. Numerous legislators told UPEA staff that they had heard from their constituents about the importance of this funding. We appreciate all of our members that were willing to help in this effort.
Please take the time to thank your legislator for their support in making state employees a priority.