Reduces the salary of members of the state legislature; provides that the regular legislative session shall end by March 31 annually.
Summary
Bill S07268 proposes to amend the legislative law in New York by reducing the annual salary of each member of the state legislature from $142,000 to $148,000, effective January 1, 2026. Additionally, it establishes a new provision that mandates the regular legislative session to conclude by March 31 of each year. This change aims to streamline legislative operations and potentially reduce costs associated with extended sessions.
Impact
The bill's passage would result in a direct reduction of legislative salaries, which may influence the overall budget for the state legislature. By enforcing an earlier end to the legislative session, it could lead to a more efficient legislative process, potentially impacting how laws are proposed and passed in New York. This could also affect the timeline for budget approvals and other legislative activities that typically occur later in the year.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding Bill S07268 appears to be mixed, with some legislators supporting the reduction of salaries as a necessary measure for fiscal responsibility, while others may view it as undermining the value of legislative work. The lack of recorded votes and committee discussions suggests that the bill has not yet garnered significant attention or debate within the legislative body.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the appropriateness of reducing legislative salaries, with proponents arguing it reflects fiscal prudence, while opponents may contend that it devalues the work of elected officials. Additionally, the mandated end date for the legislative session could be seen as limiting the ability of lawmakers to address pressing issues that may arise later in the year.
Provides that in years where a pay period occurs on January first of such year, the salaries of members of the legislature shall be payable in twenty-seven bi-weekly payments.
Provides that if legislative passage of the budget has not occurred prior to the first day of any fiscal year, the bi-weekly salary installment payments of the governor and members of the legislature to be paid on or after such day shall be withheld and forfeited in perpetuity until such legislative passage of the budget has occurred.
States findings of the Legislature and provides that individual legislative members may donate all or a portion of their compensation to the tax relief fund.
Establishes the position of member of the legislature as a part-time, volunteer position in the service of the state; provides that state legislators shall receive no salary, or any other compensation or benefit from the state; authorizes the payment of travel expenses and per diem for days the legislature is in session, provides that per diem is limited to 30 days per annum; provides that the legislature shall convene in regular session only on Saturdays and Sundays in January and February; accelerates the state budget process so that the state budget is enacted on or before the last Sunday of February each year.
(Constitutional Amendment) Provides that the timing and duration of regular sessions of the legislature may be set by joint rule of the legislature (EGF DECREASE GF EX See Note)