SLED budget proposal seeks 25 new FTEs despite receiving only $2 million funding

The South Carolina Legislature's House Government Efficiency and Legislative Oversight Committee meeting on April 3, 2025, highlighted significant staffing challenges faced by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). The committee discussed the pressing need for additional Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) to enhance operational efficiency and service delivery.

SLED representatives reported that while they requested funding for 25 new positions, only $2 million was allocated, without the corresponding FTEs. This limitation poses a challenge, as the agency cannot fully utilize the funds without the necessary personnel. The discussion underscored the importance of aligning budgetary resources with staffing needs to ensure effective law enforcement operations.

The budget submission process at SLED was also detailed, revealing a systematic approach to identifying staffing requirements. Starting in June, department majors conduct data analysis to determine their FTE needs, which are then reviewed and refined through discussions with leadership. This method aims to ensure that requests for positions are justified by data and metrics, ultimately leading to a more efficient allocation of resources.

In terms of workforce composition, SLED's breakdown showed that 58% of employees are classified as Class 1 officers, with 11% as Class 3 officers, primarily working in laboratory roles, and 31% as non-sworn personnel. This structure reflects the diverse functions within the agency, emphasizing the need for strategic hiring to meet operational demands.

The committee's discussions signal a critical juncture for SLED as it seeks to address staffing shortages and enhance its capabilities. Moving forward, the alignment of budgetary support with personnel needs will be essential for the agency to fulfill its mission effectively.