Legislative Pay Hike

Although I agree with Bobby Jindal's statement that the Legislature is a separate body, that does not relieve Governor Jindal of his responsibility to maintain the fiscal soundness of the state.

As Governor, he is the last line of defense for the people when the Legislature does something as absurd as this pay raise was.

Everyone of these legislators knew what the salary was before they qualified to be elected upon. If the salary was going to be too low, they should never have run for the position.

Everyone else in the state is having to fight the same economic hurdles without the benefit of being able to grant themselves a pay raise. There are many things Louisiana needs to be first in, but being at the top of the Legislative pay is not one of them.

And, to have to gall to tie their future pay to the salary of that other bunch of demagogues, Congress, is just absurd.

On a local note, it is disappointing to see the following Bayou region members voted for this pay hike:

House of Representatives
Joe Harrison, R-51
Damon Baldone, D-53
Jerry "Truck" Gisclair, D-54

Senate
Reggie Dupre, D-20
D.A. "Butch" Gautreau, D-21

At least these Bayou members voted against it:

House of Representatives
Gordon E. Dove, Sr., R-52
Jerome "Dee" Richard, I-55

I urge everyone to contact the Governor's office and voice your opinion. Email can be sent through his web site.

Traditional methods:
Mailing Address:
PO Box 94004
Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9004

Phone: 225-342-7015 or 866-366-1121 (Toll Free)
Fax: 225-342-7099