Printer Friendly
Email to a Friend
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) - Employee turnover at Kansas prisons has increased over the past five years, and the state's corrections secretary and legislators agree that officers' pay must rise if the state hopes to end a problem that's now seen as a threat to public safety.
But a legislative committee's endorsement last week of higher wages for uniformed officers raises potentially contentious questions about how to pay for them.
Republican Gov. Sam Brownback has ruled out further tax increases since he and the GOP-dominated Legislature raised sales and cigarette taxes in July to close an earlier shortfall.
Brownback's stance - and many Republican lawmakers' lack of interest in another tax debate - could force the Legislature into considering spending cuts elsewhere, perhaps even in aid to public schools, to boost pay for corrections officers.
© Associated Press
MOST VIEWED STORIES
Missouri River flood warning update
Ex-Pawnee City School para sentenced for sex abuse
Four arrested after Jackson Co traffic stop
BB guns, fireworks, all off limits in Atchison
Sunday wreck injures one in Atchison
Convicted baby biter sentenced to prison
New Hiawatha City Adminstrator hired
Housing to expand through Atchison Main Street funds
Morrill welfare check ends with drug arrests, children removed
Tax credits awarded to two local non-profits
Flood dangers realized by Falls City driver
Ribbon cutting ceremony held for new Seneca fitness court
Monet's Garden comes to life in Atchison
Pilgrims arrive in Atchison Tuesday; KDOT closes lane for arrival
Outgoing Holton USD 336 Supt. recognized
Jefferson Co's squatting ban moves forward
Flooding expected along Missouri River
At risk teen missing in Atchison; public asked for help
LATEST STORIES
Commission discusses KDOT letter on street lights
At risk teen missing in Atchison; public asked for help
IDOT recommends detour from I-29 if flooding occurrs
Pilgrims arrive in Atchison Tuesday; KDOT closes lane for arrival
Flood dangers realized by Falls City driver
Autopsy awaited in inmate's death
Morrill welfare check ends with drug arrests, children removed
Jefferson Co RWD#10 under boil advisory
Hiawatha, Ks 66434