A quick survey of the salaries for police officers in rural southwest Georgia found that some officers started off earning $12.70 per hour, providing further insight into why so many local law enforcement agencies are struggling to recruit new personnel and keep experienced officers on staff.
In a fall meeting a panel of state lawmakers, police chiefs, sheriffs and state law enforcement officials discussed the challenges facing their profession as Georgia ranks near the bottom of the nation in average law enforcement pay. The House Study Committee on State and Local Law Enforcement Salaries report could become the linchpin for new legislation once lawmakers return Monday after the committee signed off on recommendations granting local officers access to a statewide retirement plan, providing income tax breaks and encouraging city and county leaders to adopt a minimum salary of $56,000 to match the national average.
By comparison, the average salary for rural southwest Georgia is about $35,000 per year.
In addition to a salary bump from local departments, the study committee recommends the University System of Georgia Board of Regents should consider creating a law enforcement bachelor’s degree and streamlining the transfer of credits earned at police academies.
(READ MORE: Chattanooga City Council boosts funding for police)