Bill > S1686

This bill aims to ensure equitable pay at quasi-public agencies, which are entities established by the state but operate with some independence. Specifically, it prohibits "at-will" employees (those who can be terminated without cause) of any state authority from receiving a salary or wage higher than that of the Governor of the Commonwealth. Furthermore, after the bill's passage, state authorities are forbidden from entering into contracts with employees that offer compensation exceeding the Governor's salary. To address existing compensation structures, all state authorities must submit a compensation reduction report by December 31, 2013, to the Senate and House Committees on Ways and Means, detailing plans for salary reductions, wage freezes, furloughs, and employee reductions. However, a state authority can offer compensation above the Governor's salary if they provide public notice to the governor, treasurer, auditor, relevant legislative committees, and the general public, explaining the reasons for the excess compensation, and allow for a 30-day public comment period and a public hearing.