In a significant move to enhance public safety in North Carolina, Governor Josh Stein recently took part in an event at the Raleigh Police Department’s Special Operations Division. The gathering aimed to underscore the substantial investments in public safety within the state’s new budget, notably marking the largest salary increases for law enforcement in recent history.
Governor Stein emphasized the critical nature of law enforcement roles, stating, “Law enforcement careers are demanding and sometimes dangerous, but they are so important and rewarding. We must do everything in our power to support those who keep North Carolinians safe. With this state budget, we are sending a clear message that we value our law enforcement officers and are investing in the next generation of North Carolinians who choose a career to keep people safe.”
Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce expressed gratitude for the inclusion of local law enforcement in the financial provisions of Senate Bill 257, saying, “I am sincerely grateful to Governor Stein and his team for their continued support of law enforcement across our state. Including local law enforcement in Senate Bill 257 is a meaningful investment in the men and women who serve our communities every day. We are thankful for this support and for the Governor’s commitment to strengthening public safety throughout North Carolina.”
The Governor also spotlighted essential investments in mental and behavioral health, such as the Raleigh Police Department’s Addressing Crises through Outreach, Referral, Networking, and Service (ACORNS) unit. This initiative partners police officers with mental health professionals or social workers to address incidents involving mental health crises, substance abuse, and homelessness. This co-responder model aims to deliver more effective service to those in need and allows law enforcement to focus on crime prevention.
Earlier this month, Governor Stein approved North Carolina’s first comprehensive state budget in over two years. This budget sets a precedent with historic pay increases for state public safety personnel, including a 16.2% raise for State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) officers, 15% for State Highway Patrol officers, 13% for correctional officers, and 6.5% for probation and parole officers. Additionally, nearly $40 million is allocated for a one-time $1,750 bonus to sworn local law enforcement officers.
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