Gov. Walker's budget proposal to benefit WI State Troopers, but not lawmakers all are in favor
MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- A 17% raise. That's what state troopers would get under a deal negotiated by the Walker administration. The raise would make up for years without, but some lawmakers say they can't support it.
Michelle Braun is the proud wife of a Wisconsin state trooper. Trooper Brendan Braun is about to celebrate 15 years on the job.
"He really loves it, he loves helping people, and he loves keeping people safe. He's really good at what he does," said Michelle.
He and Michelle only wish his paychecks reflected his hard work.
"I think that when you don't give these men and women the raises that they deserve, you're kind of saying that they're not needed," said Michelle.
Michelle says her husband and other state troopers haven't gotten a pay raise since 2009. She says that is seven years too long.
President of the Wisconsin State Troopers Association, Glen Jones, says the raise is necessary because they have gone years without one. But more importantly, he's worried about retention rates.
"If this agreement is not approved, my fear is that the younger officers are going to leave in record numbers," said State Trooper, Glen Jones.
But Republicans who control the legislature have said they'll reject the deal and restart negotiations.
"We didn't build this structure to benefit the older employees. We built this structure to encourage the younger officers to first off, come here, and second off, to stay here," said Jones.
Michelle says her husband has stuck it out for 15 years because of loyalty and dedication, but that doesn't pay the bills.
"I want to be able to know every month I'm going to be able to pay my mortgage on time, and pay all the bills that go with the mortgage," said Michelle.
Earlier this week, Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald issued a statement saying he expected the joint committee on employment relations to vote down the contract, and only they, can order any new negotiations to take place.
The raise would impact 300 Wisconsin State Troopers.