Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato is making her first moves in the new role.
In her first news conference as county executive, Innamorato made moves in the hopes of addressing what she says are 1,000 job openings within county government.
Those measures include a minimum wage increase for full-time non-union employees to $18 an hour with an increase to $22 an hour by 2027.
Part-time employees will now begin at $15 an hour.
“We want people to come here and we want them to stay here to rise through the ranks, to have a great career and be part of a pension system, which is a rare employer benefit in today’s economy,” said Innamorato.
Innamorato did not have a dollar amount for the cost in additional wages - but said it would not impact the budget in 2024.
Another measure removes blanket drug testing for all county employees. During her first news conference, Innamorato said it doesn't impact positions that require drug testing by law, like County Police, but it won't be a universal policy.
“Requiring every single employee to take a drug test and to potentially force disclosure of sensitive medical conditions or if an employee has a medical marijuana card before they even start their job does not set a tone of dignity and respect in the workplace,” said Innamorato.
Other measures include more vacation time and quicker access to sick time and parental leave.