Give us your feedback on what top New York State legislators make
ALBANY -- The state legislature is scheduled to wrap up this year's session soon. The New York State Legislature calendar only runs from January to June.
So, what do lawmakers do the rest of the year to earn their annual salary of $79,500? We talked to an expert to find out.
Jeff Stonecash, a professor at Syracuse University's Maxwell School, says New York state lawmakers are some of the highest paid state legislators in the country, but he says they likely spend more time in session than legislators from other states. He says even though the legislative calendar only runs until June, legislators can come back into session any time they want throughout the rest of the year.
Stonecash says lawmakers frequently meet again sometime in the fall, and he says that doesn't even take into account all of the other work associated with being a state lawmaker.
"They are in session a limited number of days, but I think everyone doesn't quite appreciate how much time they spend in their offices meeting with constituents, going to meetings, going to meetings in the evening," says Stonecash.
Stonecash says lawmakers spend a great deal of time meeting with people in their districts, speaking to lobbyists, and researching issues that affect their districts. He says fewer and fewer legislators have outside jobs.
In addition to an annual salary, legislators can also get stipends for leadership roles. Check what your lawmakers make, and compare those slaries to what lawmakers in other states make.
You can also see when other state legislatures convene and adjourn.
This is our "Facebook Story of the Day". Do you agree with the salaries that New York State Legislators make? Leave your thoughts below. You can also visit our Facebook page and post your comments there.
