New Jersey Assembly Bill A2995

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/28/22
• Refer: 2/28/22

Caption

Eliminates dual governmental pay to members of Legislature for legislative duties.

Impact

The passage of A2995 would have a significant effect on the compensation policies for New Jersey legislators who also hold other public positions. By restricting the payment structure, it aims to encourage more ethical governance and accountability among elected officials. This move is seen as a step toward eliminating any perceptions of impropriety associated with receiving dual compensation. It also highlights a commitment to reevaluating how public servants are compensated in relation to their diverse roles within government.

Summary

Assembly Bill A2995 addresses the compensation structure for members of the New Jersey Legislature. The bill proposes to eliminate the dual payment system that allows legislators to receive pay from both their legislative duties and their other governmental employment. Under the current law, legislators are entitled to time off from their municipal or county jobs without any loss of pay while attending legislative sessions or hearings. This bill seeks to change that, limiting their time off to an approved leave of absence without pay during such activities. The intended effect of this change is to ensure that legislators are compensated solely for their legislative responsibilities without receiving pay that could create conflicts of interest or double-dipping scenarios.

Contention

While proponents argue that A2995 promotes ethical governance and fiscal responsibility, there may be concerns or resistance from legislators who rely on dual pay to support their livelihoods. Some may argue that having their pay limited could discourage qualified individuals from serving in the legislature, especially those who have careers paralleling their legislative duties. Furthermore, this bill may face scrutiny regarding its practical implications on legislative attendance and participation, as some might find it challenging to balance their legislative roles with their outside jobs with reduced financial compensation.