The 40% pay raise was hidden in a 1,000-page plus continuing resolution.
Their salaries went from $174,000 -- which is already pretty good -- to $243,000.
That is a big, big raise. Not too many people get a 40% company-wide raise.
The last-minute continuing resolution was only needed because Congress did not do its job and pass a budget during regular order.
In other words, they did not do their jobs, and they didn't do their jobs so well that they figured they were owed a 40% pay raise.
H/T Ace ~
Benefits and Privileges of US Congress Members
Members of the United States Congress enjoy a variety of benefits, privileges, and welfare programs that come with their positions. Here are some key aspects:
1. Salary and Compensation:
- Members of Congress receive a base salary of
$174,000 per year. Leadership positions, such as the Speaker of the House, earn higher salaries, with the Speaker making
$223,500 annually.
2. Retirement Benefits:
- Congress members are eligible for a pension plan after serving a minimum of five years. The pension amount is based on their years of service and the average of their highest three years of salary.
3. Health Insurance:
- Members can participate in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, which offers a variety of health insurance plans. They can choose from multiple options, and the government covers a significant portion of the premiums.
4. Travel Allowances:
- Congress members receive allowances for travel related to their official duties. This includes reimbursement for travel between their home state and Washington, D.C., as well as travel within their districts.
5. Office Expenses:
- They are provided with funds to cover office expenses, including staff salaries, office supplies, and technology. This budget varies based on the distance from Washington, D.C., and the size of the member's constituency.
6. Access and Privileges:
- Members have access to exclusive areas within the Capitol, including the House and Senate floors, and can utilize facilities such as the congressional gym and dining rooms. They also enjoy expedited security processes when entering federal buildings.
The meals provided in the dining facilities for Congress members are generally
cheaper than what one might find at typical restaurants. While members of Congress do pay for their meals, the prices are subsidized,
meaning they are lower than average market rates.
7. Additional Perks:
- Other benefits include parking privileges in House lots, access to congressional libraries, and the ability to attend various events and functions that are not open to the general public.
8. Post-Service Benefits:
- After leaving office, former members of Congress retain certain benefits, such as access to health insurance and a pension, which can provide financial security in retirement.
Do you want to be a US Congress member? lol.
Sources:
1.
https://www.axios.com/2017/12/15/the-perks-of-being-a-member-of-congress-1513307200
2.
How Much Do Members of Congress Really Get Paid?
3.
Perks Members Of Congress Give To Themselves – The Selfie Report
4.
Find Your Representative | house.gov
5.
Members of the United States Congress - GovTrack.us
6.
Myths About Congress | U.S. Representative Scott Perry
7.
https://www.congress.gov/members
8.
List of current members of the U.S. Congress
9.
List of Representatives and Senators - GovTrack.us
10.
What are the perks and privileges of being a member of Congress?
