Kansas legislators approved funding for most state agencies and services for the next budget year, but a last-minute protest arose over a 93% pay increase for lawmakers. The bill includes a 5% pay increase for state workers, but critics raised concerns about the large raise for legislators. Despite attempts to delay the pay raise, it was not included in the final version of the bill, leading to criticism from opponents.
The state has been experiencing a surplus of revenues for three years, with over $3.7 billion in excess funds expected by June 2025. Governor Laura Kelly and lawmakers have been discussing tax cuts, but a compromise plan failed to gain approval. Legislators also have not yet approved funding for the K-12 public school system, with disagreements over special education policies causing delays. The bill also included provisions aimed at influencing border security and diversity programs.
A bipartisan commission concluded that lawmakers are underpaid, leading to the approval of a significant pay raise for legislators. The increase will bring rank-and-file legislators’ compensation to nearly $58,000, with additional payments for leadership positions. Debate over the pay raise was split, with some supporting it as recognition for the work of legislators, while others criticized the significant increase in light of the 5% raise for state workers.
Pay for legislators varies widely across states, with New Hampshire offering $100 a year, while Alaska recently increased lawmakers’ salaries by 67%. New Jersey legislators are expected to see a similar increase in 2026, and New York lawmakers currently earn the highest salary in the nation at $142,000. The disparity in legislative pay has sparked debate and criticism in Kansas, where lawmakers are set to receive a substantial raise despite concerns from both within and outside the legislature.
Overall, the funding bill for the next budget year has been approved, but controversies surrounding the pay raise for legislators continue to generate discussion. With ongoing debates over tax cuts, school funding, and other policy measures, Kansas legislators are facing a range of challenges as they work to manage the state’s finances and services. The impacts of the pay raise and other budgetary decisions are likely to be felt in the coming months as the state navigates its financial priorities.
