MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WRN) — A pay increase is on the way for those in the front lines of Wisconsin’s court system.
Addressing a critical pay gap, starting salaries for Wisconsin public defenders and assistant district attorneys would get a bump under a Republican-authored budget provision passed unanimously Tuesday by the Legislature’s Joint Finance Committee.
State Public Defender Kelli Thompson joined lawmakers at the Capitol.
“Ultimately, ensuring that the justice system is properly resourced is a direct investment in individual liberties, due process, and public safety to our communities around Wisconsin,” said Thompson.
Starting pay for public defenders and assistant DAs would increase to $36 an hour, or about $75,000 a year.
That’s more than what was sought by Democratic Governor Tony Evers in his two year state budget.
