The bill H.854, titled the Legislative Economic Incentive Act of 2026, aims to encourage members of the General Assembly to conclude their legislative sessions before the first Friday in May. It stipulates that if the session ends by this date, members will receive their full compensation. However, if the session extends up to three weeks beyond this date, members will only receive expense reimbursements, and if it goes beyond three weeks, they will receive neither compensation nor reimbursements. The bill introduces new provisions regarding the payment schedule for the Speaker of the House and the President Pro Tempore, ensuring that their biweekly payments are made only until the first Friday in May, regardless of whether the session adjourns early.

Additionally, the bill modifies the compensation structure for all members of the General Assembly, establishing that their weekly salary will also be paid only until the first Friday in May, with no additional salary for sessions that continue beyond this date. It further specifies that beginning July 1, 2026, members will not receive reimbursement for expenses if the session extends more than three weeks past the first Friday in May. The bill also updates the language regarding the Joint Fiscal Office, replacing references to the Office of Legislative Operations, and includes various adjustments to compensation and reimbursement procedures. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 32-1052