Montgomery Co., county commission, salary, existing expense allowance converted to salary, Act 85-550, 1985 Reg. Sess., and Act 2007-331, 2007 Reg. Sess., repealed
Impact
The impact of SB177 on state laws is primarily localized to Montgomery County. By instituting a salary increase for county commission members, the legislation alters how local government officials are compensated. This change is intended to enhance transparency in financial matters concerning public officials and may also serve to attract a more qualified pool of candidates for election to the county commission, owing to more attractive compensation.
Summary
SB177 proposes an increase in the salary of members of the Montgomery County Commission by $16,000 per year, effectively converting certain existing unvouchered expense allowances into salary. This change aims to simplify the compensation structure for county commissioners while providing them with a raised and more predictable income. The bill is designed to take effect at the beginning of the next term for the commission following its approval, enabling a timely transition to the new salary structure.
Contention
While the bill passed unanimously in the Senate with a vote of 31-0, discussions around compensation for local government officials can often be contentious. Some may argue that increasing salaries of government officials may set a precedent for future salary increases and may create budgetary pressures. However, supporters of the bill claim that the increase is justified and necessary to reflect the work and responsibilities undertaken by the commission members.
Same As
Montgomery Co., county commission, salary, existing expense allowance converted to salary, Act 85-550, 1985 Reg. Sess., and Act 2007-331, 2007 Reg. Sess., repealed