Governor Polis, Colorado WINS Sign Memorandum of Understanding Supporting State Employees

DENVER ~ In a move to support and recognize the hard work of Colorado state employees, Governor Jared Polis, along with the Colorado Department of Personnel and Administration and Colorado WINS, signed the Step 2.0 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Colorado WINS and the State of Colorado today.

The Step 2.0 MOU will trigger the implementation of the Step Pay 2.0 Plan, which will be included in Governor Polis' budget submission on November 1, 2026 and put into effect on July 1, 2027. This MOU is an extension of the 2024 collective bargaining agreement and aims to update the step pay program in a way that benefits both employees and the state.

Governor Polis expressed his appreciation for state employees, calling them "dedicated public servants" who are essential to the functioning of Colorado. He emphasized that step pay will provide more predictability for classified employees, allowing them to better afford basic necessities such as housing, childcare, and groceries. The governor also thanked Colorado WINS for their partnership in this endeavor.

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Jana Locke, Executive Director of the Department of Personnel & Administration and State Personnel Director, also spoke about the importance of recognizing and rewarding state employees for their years of service. She highlighted other initiatives such as skills-based hiring that aim to attract and retain talented individuals for public service.

Hilary Glasgow, Executive Director of COWINS (Colorado Workers for Innovative New Solutions), expressed her satisfaction with reaching an agreement with the state on tangible recognition for employees' years of service. She stressed that this is especially crucial now as there is a growing demand for public services.

The Steps 2.0 MOU has three main components: expanding eligibility for pay progression by considering time in a larger occupational group rather than just one job series; introducing a new Total State Service Award based on total years of state service; and including a 1.25% Cost of Living Adjustment to help employees thrive in changing economic conditions.

This MOU is a significant step towards ensuring that public service remains an attractive career option and that state employees are properly recognized and rewarded for their dedication and hard work. With the collaboration of the Governor's Office, Colorado WINS, and the legislature, efforts will continue to be made to support state employees and build a strong workforce for the future.

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