S99 - Appropriations Act of 2018. (SL 2018-5)

Overview: Sec. 35.25, as amended by Sec. 8.1 of S.L. 2018-97, implements a new pay plan for the State Highway Patrol and establishes a trooper training cost recovery program applicable after training to cadets and to certain law enforcement employers that hire cadets. To avoid possible federal income tax consequences associated with creating a forgivable loan program, Section 8.1 of the Budget Technical Corrections act (S.L. 2018-97, Senate Bill 335) restructured the program into a contract to reimburse the training expenses if the trooper separates from the Highway Patrol before 36 months of service. Instead of excusing liability monthly under a promissory note effective during training with forgiveness over the 36-month period, a trooper will agree to reimburse the State only if they leave State employment prior to the agreed upon contract period of 36 months. Covered law enforcement employers who hire a trooper who is still under contract requirements will be liable to the State for training costs in the amount of $36,000.

The changes became effective for the 2018-2019 fiscal year.