Gov. David M. Apatang on Thursday withdrew his request for legislative approval to pay Special Assistant Henry Hofschneider an $80,000 annual salary, $20,000 above the government’s salary cap.
The original request came as the administration enacted a $179 million budget for FY 2026, despite revenue projections of only $156 million. On Oct. 1, Apatang ordered cost-cutting across government agencies, including reduced work hours, a hiring freeze, and limits on travel and overtime.
Law enforcement officers will also see biweekly hour caps: 80 hours for Department of Public Safety and Corrections, 100 hours for Fire and Emergency Medical Services, with a six-hour reduction per pay period and further cuts for administrative roles.
Lt. Gov. Dennis Mendiola was one of those publicly opposing the salary increase, citing its emotional and financial impact on the community. Apatang withdrew the request in a letter to both houses of the legislature Thursday.
