House Concurrent Resolution No. 4, introduced by the Ways and Means Committee, addresses the compensation of Idaho's legislative members as determined by the Citizens' Committee on Legislative Compensation. The resolution notes that the committee has approved a base salary of $25,000 per year for legislators from December 1, 2024, to November 30, 2026, which represents a 26% increase from the previous salary of $19,913. This increase aims to align legislative salaries more closely with those of other state employees, as legislative compensation has lagged behind increases for judges and constitutional officers since 2005. The resolution also highlights that Idaho's legislators do not receive additional compensation for interim meetings or special sessions, and they have fewer support staff compared to other western states.
The resolution further provides that individual legislators who feel their compensation is excessive may voluntarily donate all or a portion of their salary to the Tax Relief Fund, as established in Idaho Code. This provision allows legislators to take a proactive approach in addressing concerns about their compensation while also contributing to taxpayer relief. The resolution reflects a recognition of the need for fair compensation for legislative work while also offering a mechanism for those who wish to express their discontent with the increase.