Kansas Senate Bill SB35

Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/23
• Refer: 1/18/23
• Failed: 4/30/24

Caption

Increasing the rate of compensation for legislators for service during regular and special sessions and the interim period between regular sessions.

Impact

If enacted, SB35 will notably alter the financial structure governing legislator remuneration. Specifically, the daily compensation increases could enhance the attractiveness of serving in the legislature, potentially influencing the demographic diversity of lawmakers. Higher subsistence and mileage allowances would also support legislators in covering essential expenses incurred while fulfilling their legislative responsibilities. This change aligns with ongoing discussions regarding the sufficiency of legislative compensation, which some argue needs to reflect the demands of public service more adequately.

Summary

Senate Bill 35 proposes an increase in the compensation for members of the Kansas Legislature during both regular and special sessions, as well as for the interim periods between these sessions. The bill amends K.S.A. 46-137a to change the per diem rate for legislators from $88.66 to $125, thereby significantly raising their daily earnings while serving in session. Additionally, the subsistence allowance is set at $109 per day but may increase based on federal per diem rates applicable to federal employees. This bill aims to provide more financial support to legislators in performing their duties.

Contention

Debates surrounding SB35 may involve criticisms related to public perception of governmental salaries. Some constituents may argue that increasing compensation for legislators during a time when budgetary constraints affect other areas of state expenditure could appear unjust. Proponents of the bill, however, contend that fair compensation is crucial for attracting qualified candidates to serve in office and that it ensures that legislators can focus on their roles without undue financial strain. The conversation around this bill could highlight broader themes regarding public sector wages and their implications for governance.