Sen. Sampson Holds Government Size, Spending in Check with SEBAC Wage Increase Opposition

State Sen. Rob Sampson (R-Wolcott) today issued a statement on his opposition to the proposed State Employees Bargaining Agent Coalition (SEBAC) 4.5 percent wage and step increases for state employees entering the final year of the existing four-year agreement. The increase was approved by both legislative chambers yesterday along party lines.

“I have the utmost respect for many hardworking state employees, including correction officers. However, state government is far too large, expensive, and is poorly managed. This mixture is a major reason why everyday Connecticut residents and businesses are struggling. Yes, there are state employees that likely merit wage increases, while others are receiving exorbitant salaries.

“These exceptional employees are unfortunately grouped into a far larger pool than taxpayers should reward as families and businesses continue to struggle. More, this wage increase is an exclamation mark on the existing four-year agreement that has provided state employees with nearly a 40 percent pay hike over that period. This stunning increase is almost unheard of in the private sector. Salaries in the public sector should be aligned with those in the private sector, including benefits.

“I was not a part of the initial negotiations on this deal and, as such, it was difficult to support it,” said Sen. Sampson.