West Virginia Senate approves $8K salary increase for judges and magistrates

West Virginia's Senate Pensions Committee convened on March 24, 2025, to discuss significant changes to the state's judiciary compensation and retirement benefits. The primary focus was Senate Bill 589, which proposes an $8,000 salary increase for judges across various courts, including the Supreme Court, intermediate court, circuit court, family court, and magistrates. This adjustment is expected to cost the state over $3 million, factoring in increased benefits.

To fund this increase, the bill introduces a state employer contribution holiday, projected to save between $1.2 million and $1.4 million annually until fiscal year 2030 or until the pension plan's funded rate drops below 150%. Currently, the plan is overfunded at approximately 250%, allowing it to absorb these changes without jeopardizing its health.

The legislation also modifies the retirement benefits for judges. It allows judges appointed or elected after July 1, 2005, to receive a reduced pension benefit after 12 years of service, rather than waiting until they reach 65 years of age and have served 16 years. Additionally, the surviving spouse benefit will increase from 40% to 50% of the member's benefit, and distinctions between pre- and post-2005 judges regarding benefit calculations will be eliminated.

During the meeting, committee members discussed the evolution of the bill, noting that the initial proposal included provisions for lower courts to set their staff's pay, which were ultimately removed. The committee emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy pension plan while ensuring fair compensation for judges.

As the bill progresses, it highlights the state's commitment to supporting its judiciary while managing fiscal responsibilities. The committee's discussions reflect a careful balance between enhancing judicial salaries and ensuring the sustainability of the retirement system, with further evaluations expected as the bill moves forward.