Nashville, TN (1-15-2025) – The Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) today announced a nearly $37 million investment in salary increases for correctional officers and other security personnel, effective February 16, 2025. According to a letter from TDOC Commissioner Frank Strada to his team, these increases are part of the department’s efforts to address recruitment and retention challenges within its security series.
Beginning February 16, starting salaries for correctional officers will rise to $51,204, with additional tiered increases bringing salaries to $60,720 after 18 months. Current security staff will see a minimum 10 percent salary increase or be brought up to the new base salary, whichever is higher.
“This investment in our people recognizes the value of correctional professionals and demonstrates the support we have received from the Governor’s Office and the General Assembly,” Commissioner Strada stated in a letter to employees.
This pay raise will position TDOC as one of the highest-paid correctional agencies in the southeastern United States, according to the letter.
“We are grateful to Commissioner Strada, the Legislature, and Governor Lee for making this significant investment in our TDOC security series employees,” said TSEA Executive Director LaTanya McAdoo. “We know this increase does not directly affect every TDOC employee, and all are crucial in the success of the agency, but we realize this is an important step toward addressing the recruitment and retention challenges our correctional facilities have faced for years.”
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