Sources around Legislative Hall are speaking loudly about a very unusual committee assignment in the Delaware Senate. It appears to be a sure thing that a rookie Delaware State Senator will get a spot on the Joint Finance Committee.
While some think this is a most excellent idea others are fuming. While I won’t name the Senator just yet, I can say they are a Democrat. With a spot on JFC, this also gives a Senator or State Representative more money. Almost $10,000 extra a year. While the average salary for a State Rep. or Senator is around $45,000 a year, that is a big percentage more to be on JFC. But I will say the bump is necessary because they do spend most of February and other weeks in hearings to help determine the final state budget for the next fiscal year.
A spot on JFC is something many legislators covet. While the salary bump is nice, many legislators do not rely on their General Assembly salary as their primary income. It is, however, a very powerful position. This is where all the financial decisions for the entire state budget are made. A voice on this committee is huge! Most members of JFC earn it over the years so for a seat to be given to a rookie is extremely rare.
The Season Of Myths 