Prince George's delegates recommend raising county state's attorney salary to $250,000

The Prince George's County House Delegation's County Affairs Committee on Thursday recommended raising the county state's attorney salary from $199,000 to $250,000, advancing a bill read in the hearing as PG42626 (HB1222).

Chair Delegate Julian Ivy opened the discussion and asked committee staff to read the synoptic text. Clerical staff said the increase "would take effect at the beginning of the next term of office," and noted in the hearing record that the next general election for state's attorneys in Prince George's County is "November 26."

Supporters argued the raise brings the county in line with regional peers. Carlton Atkinson of the county executive's office cited comparable salaries: Montgomery County about $251,000; Baltimore City $238,000; Anne Arundel County $222,000; Frederick $219,000; and Baltimore County $218,000. Atkinson said the adjustment reflects differences in caseload and the need to attract and retain qualified prosecutors.

Explaining the committee's view, Chair Julian Ivy said the office faces distinct risks and duties and noted the practical differences in roles. "1 of them gets death threats. The other 1 does not," he said, arguing the county state's attorney's responsibilities and safety concerns justify higher compensation.

The motion to move the bill was made and seconded and the clerk conducted a roll call. Several members explained their aye votes during the record, citing Prince George's population, caseload and comparability with Montgomery County. The clerk reported a favorable recommendation from the committee.

What happens next: the bill, as reflected in the hearing record as PG42626 (HB1222), would amend state statute to set the new salary and, if enacted, take effect at the beginning of the next term of office for the county state's attorney. The committee did not record or adopt an amendment during this hearing.