One Illinois lawmaker said ‘yes’ to pay hike

Posted on July 29, 2015

State Rep. Will Davis (D-Homewood) was the only lawmaker to vote for a cost-of-living increase. (Photo courtesy www.ilga.gov)

By Dave Dahl/Illinois Radio Network

SPRINGFIELD – One red light stood against 101 green ones on the tote board in the Illinois House chamber Tuesday, when representatives voted to cancel their own cost-of-living adjustments.

State Rep. Will Davis (D-Homewood) says not only was the vote a “minuscule” symbol which does not address a multi-billion dollar budget problem, he believes he earns his money.

“The governor would argue that he’s willing to pay top dollar to get the appropriate talent,” said Davis. “I think that I’m a good legislator. My constituents, I believe, feel that I’m a good legislator. So why shouldn’t I have the opportunity to be compensated appropriately for the work that I do?”

While the Illinois General Assembly is technically a part-time body, Davis says it’s his only source of employment, carrying long hours and, sometimes, seven-day work weeks.

This is a year in which public paychecks are under scrutiny. One administrator alone – secretary of education Beth Purvis – makes $250,000, which is more than the entire COLA bill – should it become law – will save.

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