In 2008, the Legislature finally took steps to bring state employee compensation to a level that is somewhat competitive with the private sector.  During the last legislative session, five new classified state employee pay plans were approved for implementation, along with a new statewide employee performance management system, a 2.5 percent base salary adjustment for all state employees and regular market salary surveys.  These changes took effect July 1, 2008. 

Previously, Kansas classified state employees worked under a system based on longevity and position.  The new plan will gradually transition to a "compensation philosophy."  Similar to the private sector, this philosophy offers competitive compensation based on relevant labor markets and employee performance.  This will help raise expectations for both managers and employees, attracting and retaining better workers.  
   
Kansas employs thousands of classified workers, many whom do not work at market value.  The main goal of the proposal is to bring state employees' salary into competitive range of those paid to workers with similar experience and education in the private sector, as well as other public sector agencies like cities and counties.  The new plan includes five new basic pay plans for classified employees: Basic Vocational Pay, General Classified Pay, Management Pay, Professional Individual Contributor Pay and Protective Services Pay. The legislation also phased out longevity bonuses for all state employees hired after June 15, 2008.
   
Kansas House Democrats overwhelmingly supported this legislation in 2008.  A weighted, multi-year plan will make the appropriate cost of living adjustments and bring all classified employees to market value.  Our caucus will continue to support efforts to ensure Kansas employees receive fair and adequate compensation for their work.

For more information:

• Kansas Department of Administration
  
• Kansas Organization of State Employees