To the editor:

Here is the rest of the story on Kansas Legislature pay. This is in reference to Michael Smith’s opinion “What’s your hurry, Kansas Legislators?”

In Smith’s column he wrote “Instead of a paltry per diem (per day) allowance, they now receive $43,000 (previously $21,000) per year and remain eligible for KPERS benefits.”

KPERS benefits is the Kansas Public Employee Retirement System. As a retired teacher, I receive KPERS, as do judges, public employees, firefighters and law enforcement retirees. Any public school employee receives KPERS, and now you know that Kansas legislators can opt to receive as well.

Back to the Kansas legislative pay. Smith did not include that some legislators receive more than the $43,000. Senate President Ty Materson is due to receive $85,000 a year up from $44,000. Majority and minority leaders also were to receive an increase. In one dive down the rabbit hole, the number I found was $68,000.

I know that for some legislators the time away from their source of income outside of the legislative duties is a hardship and legislative pay is important. However, I wanted to share the “rest of the story” for all to ponder.

In closing, I mentioned I was a retired public school educator. There has not been a cost of living increase for KPERS retirees for 29 years. That can only come from the Kansas legislators. Enjoy your increased income, legislators. Next year, perhaps KPERS retirees?

Ruthe Goff,

Lawrence