CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Two unions representing West Virginia law enforcement have asked Gov. Jim Justice to dedicate some federal coronavirus relief money toward hazard pay.
The West Virginia Troopers’ Association/Communications Workers of America Local 2019 and National Coalition of Public Safety Officers/Communications Workers of America Local 2055 have requested Justice and state lawmakers dedicate $5,000 to each state trooper and correctional worker.
The state has nearly $130 million in unused coronavirus relief money provided to the state last year in addition to around $677 million from this year’s American Rescue plan.
“What the members of the State Police have been doing since its inception is that we protect and serve the citizens of the state, no matter how big the challenge. Every time our uniform goes on, we know the risk,” said Jeff Chumley, the president of the West Virginia Troopers’ Association/Communications Workers of America Local 2019.
“The COVID-19 pandemic added an extra layer of risk.”
Matthew Brock, the president of the National Coalition of Public Safety Officers/Communications Workers of America Local 2055, said the idea came from Virginia lawmakers approving bonuses of $3,000 for corrections officers and $5,000 for state police.
“We’re in an enclosed environment,” he said. “We have close contact with revolving populations, and it’s very stressful, very hazardous, and we currently have a labor shortage. Some of our places almost have 50% staff shortages.”
Brock said law enforcement face risks every time they are at work, noting two correctional officers who have died from the coronavirus.
“All frontline workers and people who are still currently working through the pandemic should receive hazard pay,” he added. “A lot of people didn’t have the luxury to work from home. We had to come in.”