SEIU Local 2000

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Missouri Probation and Parole Officers Win Wage Increase

Recent negotiations involving the Personnel Advisory Board (PAB), the Missouri Department of Corrections and SEIU Local 2000 have resulted in a four percent wage increase for Missouri’s probation and parole officers. This raise is equivalent to what officers would have received under repositioning.

The four percent wage increase, announced Monday, November 17, is the culmination of a five year struggle by probation and parole employees.

As part of the agreement probation and parole officer 1’s will become probation and parole officer 2’s and will receive a 2 step salary increase.

“I can’t believe it’s really happening! We’ve won after five years of struggle. With SEIU, we’ve finally won,” said Shelia Anderson, eight-year probation and parole veteran, after the wage increase was announced November 17.

The agreement will increase wages by over $1200 for most of Missouri’s probation and parole officers. Despite a billion dollar state budget deficit, total wage increases for Officers, in 2003, range from $1800-$3000.

Rick Hunley, from district 4R, said, “This is a major victory. To win a four percent wage increase in this kind of economic environment really is an accomplishment. Without SEIU it wouldn’t have happened.”

SEIU had hoped to introduce wage increases through repositioning. But in a display of shocking disregard for the needs of Missouri’s probation and parole officers, the Personnel Advisory Board voted against repositioning Tuesday, November 12.

After the PAB vote SEIU Local 2000 President Grant Williams, said, “We are going to continue to fight on behalf of our probation and parole members.” Adding, “This struggle isn’t over. We will go back and get repositioning as well.”

After the November 17 announcement Williams said, “Without the dedication and motivation of our members a four percent wage increase would not have been possible. It is because of their commitment that we’ve won!” Williams added, “We are proud to represent Missouri’s Probation and Parole officers. We will continue to fight. Now is the time to work towards better health insurance and a career ladder.”

The wage increase will take affect December 1.