Sanders Announces Merit Pay Increases for State Employees

Dear Arkansas State Employees:

Over the past year, you have helped my administration deliver truly transformational change for the people of Arkansas, improving services while saving money. I am grateful for your hard work.

In recognition of your efforts, I am announcing a pay increase for state employees who met or exceeded expectations over the past year, as shown in your most recent performance evaluations. I am authorizing a 1% base salary increase for those who received a 3 on their evaluation - those who met expectations - and a 3% base salary increase for those who received a 4 on their evaluation - those who exceeded expectations. These raises will only apply to state employees who have worked in the executive branch for at least a year, and who have worked at their current executive department since January 1, 2026.

Additionally, I know last year's pay plan changes positively impacted many of you, raising the pay of two-thirds of executive branch employees up to market standards and offering double-digit pay increases to some of our most in-demand personnel, including corrections officers, state troopers, and DCFS caseworkers. These additional merit raises will only help our state recruit and retain the best.

Rewarding good work goes hand-in-hand with delivering better results for the people of Arkansas. Thank you for your service to our state and your continued dedication to your career in public service.

Sincerely,
Sarah Huckabee Sanders
Governor of Arkansas

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