Many low paid sheriff deputies across the state are getting a reminder that more money could soon be headed their way. Senate President Pro Tem Michael Gibbons (R-Kirkwood) is making stops in various cities, conducting ceremonial signings of House Bill 2224 , legislation moving deputies a step closer to better pay.

The bill allows sheriffs to receive an additional $10 fee for processing any civil summons, writ, subpoena, or other court order – with the money going into the newly created "Deputy Sheriff Salary Supplementation Fund."

Gibbons says many deputies who put their lives on the line are earning so little they are eligible for food stamps. The average salary for county deputies is a little more than $22,000 a year, with most taking home about $15,500 dollars a year.

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