Stuart’s Measure to Block Lawmaker Pay Increase Passes General Assembly

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Legislation introduced by state Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, to block an automatic pay raise for politicians was approved by the Senate and will be sent to the governor.

“Politicians shouldn’t get pay raises, especially when the state is without a budget and billions are owed to our schools, hospitals and providers,” said Stuart.  “As I go door-to-door, I hear about the struggles of so many families in our community. Taxpayers shouldn’t also be on the hook for a pay raise for politicians.”

Stuart’s House Bill 643 prevents lawmakers and elected executive branch office holders from receiving an automatic pay increase. Stuart is also pushing no budget, no pay legislation to prevent lawmakers from collecting a paycheck when the state does not have a budget and legislation to eliminate taxpayer-funded pensions for politicians.

“Real people in my community are suffering because of the lack of a state budget,” Stuart said. “It’s not right for politicians to give themselves raises. In fact, I believe we need to take this a step further. That’s why I’ve made the commitment to my constituents that I won’t accept my salary if the state doesn’t have a budget.”