The long-awaited state budget that Gov. Josh Stein signed into law earlier this month includes $40 million to provide a one-time $1,750 bonus for sworn local law enforcement officers.
The $34 billion budget includes double-digit salary increases for officers in several different branches of state agencies – 16.2 percent for SBI and ALE officers, 15 percent for N.C. State Highway Patrol officers, and 13 percent for correctional officers, according to a press statement. Probation and parole officers will get a 6.5 percent pay raise.
Vance County Sheriff Curtis Brame told WIZS News Monday that the topic of bonuses had been discussed at the N.C. Sheriffs’ Association conference, and said he surely hopes they come through.
Henderson Police Chief Marcus Barrow told WIZS News Monday that the department had gotten some guidance about the bonus program from the SBI, which will be administering the distribution of funds.
“The SBI is currently implementing the program through a phased registration and certification process, and the Henderson Police Department is awaiting additional guidance regarding the next steps for participation,” Barrow stated.
Based on the information provided by the SBI, local law enforcement officers generally qualify for the one-time $1,750 bonus if they:
- Were sworn local law enforcement officers as of June 30, 2026;
- Are employed by an eligible North Carolina county or municipal law enforcement agency;
- Meet the statutory eligibility requirements established in Section 41.3 of Senate Bill 257; and
- Are certified as eligible by their employing agency through the SBI registration and certification process.
While the possibility of this bonus – which will be considered taxable income – had been discussed for some time, it was not something many local agencies truly expected to become a reality, Barrow noted.
“The Henderson Police Department believes this action reflects the State of North Carolina’s recognition of the significant recruitment and retention challenges facing local law enforcement agencies and serves as a meaningful expression of appreciation for the dedicated men and women who have remained committed to serving their communities despite increasing workloads, staffing shortages, and the growing demands placed upon the profession,” Barrow stated.
The governor joined law enforcement officials and specialized units including the Selective Enforcement Unit and K-9 teams at Raleigh Police Department’s Special Operations Division recently to highlight the state budget’s investments in public safety, including the largest pay raises to law enforcement in recent state history.
“Law enforcement careers are demanding and sometimes dangerous, but they are so important and rewarding,” Stein said. “We must do everything in our power to support those who keep North Carolinians safe. With this state budget, we are sending a clear message that we value our law enforcement officers and are investing in the next generation of North Carolinians who choose a career to keep people safe.”
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