Gov. Morrisey Proposes Urgent 3% Raise for Teachers, Workers

UPDATE: West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey just announced a significant proposal for a 3% pay raise for state employees as part of his urgent appeal to lawmakers during the current legislative session. This initiative aims to address rising inflation and improve the financial situation for teachers and state workers who have been under pressure for years.

During his State of the State address on Wednesday evening, Morrisey emphasized the importance of this raise, stating, “They worked hard, and we want to keep up with the inflation and the standard of living.” The governor’s pledge is designed to provide relief amid the increasing costs of living that have burdened many state employees.

Morrisey’s proposal, first hinted at in December 2023, also comes alongside a call for a 10% income tax cut, which he believes will enhance the overall financial health of state workers. “You’re giving state workers 3% with one hand and the other hand, you’re giving them a 10% tax cut,” he explained. This dual strategy aims to deliver substantial new resources to employees, enhancing their take-home pay significantly.

The West Virginia Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) has also been a focal point in discussions, with Morrisey highlighting that the administration has managed to limit health insurance premium increases to just 3% this year, a substantial improvement compared to previous years. “You didn’t see a 10% increase in PEIA. You didn’t see a 14% like you did in previous years,” he said, emphasizing the efforts made to control costs.

Currently, West Virginia’s average teacher starting salary is $42,708, placing the state 37th in the nation, while the average teacher salary stands at $55,516, ranking 48th nationally according to the National Education Association. This proposed raise, while modest, is seen as a necessary step to retain qualified educators and state workers in an increasingly competitive job market.

Morrisey acknowledges the challenges of balancing budget priorities, stating, “You try to make sure that you’re balancing competing priorities well.” His administration is focused on boosting morale and financial stability for state employees, who have faced stagnant wages and rising expenses in recent years.

As this proposal moves forward, state lawmakers are urged to take immediate action. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated, as many educators and public employees eagerly await a much-needed financial boost. This latest development is crucial not only for the individuals directly affected but also for the broader community that relies on these dedicated workers.

Next steps: Lawmakers will discuss the proposal in upcoming sessions, and the public is encouraged to stay informed on this developing story. The outcome of this initiative could significantly impact the lives of thousands of state employees across West Virginia, making it a pressing issue for all residents.

Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving situation as we continue to track the latest developments from Charleston.