Bill > HB1605

This bill establishes a state patrol longevity bonus program for commissioned Washington State Patrol employees with 26 or more years of service. Starting July 1, 2024, eligible employees will receive an annual bonus of $15,000, paid in four equal quarterly payments. Additionally, employees who have already completed 26 or more years of service before July 1, 2024, and have been continuously employed for at least one year, will receive a one-time retention incentive calculated based on their anniversary date quarter, not to exceed $3,750. The bill requires the Washington State Patrol to submit quarterly reports on field force trooper positions and specifies that these benefits are not a contractual right and can be altered by the legislature. The longevity bonus is subject to collective bargaining agreements and is designed to help retain senior personnel. The program is defined with specific terms like "eligible commissioned employee" and is set to expire on June 30, 2029. The bill was passed with an emergency clause, making it effective immediately upon the governor's signature, with the intent of supporting the state patrol's workforce retention efforts.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1605&Year=2025&Initiative=false