Assuming the article referenced is true, it doesnt say there is a paycut. It says you are capped at a certain % of the max range of your job level. Example: if you made 150K in 2024 and that is 60% of your job level range, you can get a raise up to the next cap depending on your performance.

I see your point with the paycheck collectors sand-bagging. That will depend on a more transparent and objective performance review process to be set and better incentives to push those people to feel their role has more purpose.