Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has announced merit-based pay increases for Arkansas state employees in recognition of their hard work and dedication over the past year.
State employees who received a performance evaluation rating of “met expectations” will receive a 1% base salary increase, while those rated “exceeded expectations” will see a 3% raise.
These increases apply only to executive branch employees who have worked at their current department since at least January 2, 2025, and have been employed in the executive branch for at least one year.
Governor Sanders also highlighted the passage of Act 499 during the 2025 legislative session, which authorizes a new pay plan set to take effect July 1.
The plan aims to raise pay for two-thirds of executive branch employees to market standards and offers double-digit increases for high-demand positions such as corrections officers, state troopers, and DCFS caseworkers.
In a message to state workers, Governor Sanders expressed gratitude for their service and emphasized that rewarding good work is essential to improving public services across Arkansas.