Lawmakers could receive pay increases of more than a third next year under a plan discussed Thursday. But decision-makers delayed a final vote on raises that would cost the state $1.5 million next year until the day after next month’s election.
The Citizens’ Committee on Legislative Compensation met at the Idaho Capitol to consider a proposal for 34% pay increases for state lawmakers.
In fiscal year 2024, which began July 1, legislators — who serve part time — were paid $19,394, not including per diem allowances. The new pay rate would take effect in December and boost their salary to $37,801 in the coming year.
Rather than setting pay rates with small increases each year, the committee appointed by Idaho’s governor and supreme court considered a proposal from the Legislature’s leadership Thursday that would tie lawmaker pay to 40% of the average household income in the state. The average annual earnings of a household in Idaho are $94,503, according to legislative staff.
By comparison, the salaries for most candidates elected to full-time statewide office are in the six figures. Idaho’s Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke is the one exception, receiving $52,990 in annual pay.