DPSOA Vice-President
This has been a very productive week at the Capitol. DPSOA representatives have been busy walking the halls and meeting with key legislators all week. Gary Chandler, Darla Freeman and I have used personal leave time to advance our agenda. I would like to thank them for their dedication.
Since our Tuesday update, DPSOA met with Craig Eiland’s office to discuss his HB 2455 that will draw from Federal stimulus money to fund a 13th check for all state retirees. Rep. Eiland is committed to moving this bill forward, but currently his attention is focused on securing much needed relief for his home district, including Galveston Island and Bolivar Peninsula, which was devastated by Hurricane Ike. This legislation will continue to be a top priority in our agenda. The bill, if passed, would pay a onetime payment in September of 2009 in the amount of your regular annuity payment for August of 2009 or $2,400.00, whichever is less.
DPSOA also met with Chief Baker’s office to encourage the Department to find money and other ways to help Communications personnel. DPSOA will continue exploring options that will help our Communications members.
We have received many questions regarding the Schedule C salary increase that was discussed in the Tuesday update. Let me assure you, we are very pleased with the progress that we have seen early in the session. Having a significant portion of the raise moved into Article V helps us to focus on the remaining funds, which are currently rolled into Article XI with everyone else’s requests. We will continue working to secure the remaining money needed to secure the salary increase recommended by the State Auditor’s Report.
Thank you for your comments and support. Working together, we can make a difference.
Message from the President 