Jerry is pushing in the right direction nicely!
Free ride is over for California legislators
Saturday, April 16, 2011
What we said: "California is the only state in the union that offers to cover much of the cost of state legislators' cars. That has to change." - Editorial, Apr. 13, 2011
What happened: This week, the California Citizens Compensation Commission voted to end California's generous car perk for legislators. Previously, taxpayers had given generous subsidies to lawmakers for car leases and insurance. Taxpayers also picked up the tab for their gas, maintenance and vehicle claims. The commission voted to end the program and give legislators a $300 monthly car allowance instead. The new program will save $2.1 million over five years.
What's next: Expect pushback from state legislators. In 2009, their pay and benefits were cut by 26 percent, so they're already feeling under siege from angry voters. When voters have more confidence in the Legislature, maybe they'll support the idea of pay and benefit raises. But as long as only a third of California voters believe that Sacramento's elected officials can come up with solutions (according to a December Public Policy Institute of California poll), legislators shouldn't expect much sympathy.
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