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Do Members get any special privileges or other "perks"? |
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Under certain circumstances, they have immunity from arrest while Congress is in session. Members receive allowances to cover their official expenses.
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How are Members required to run their offices? |
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Members must follow rules when hiring staff. They receive an appropriation of public money to pay for personnel and office expenses that varies depending on the size of their constituency. Congressional resources can only be used for official business. |
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What kinds of employee benefits do they receive? |
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Members can take part in the Federal health and life insurance programs, and have mandatory participation in Social Security and Medicare. Additional retirement planning options, such as the Federal Employee's Retirement System, are also available. |
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Do Members have to pay taxes? |
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Members must pay Federal income tax on their salaries along with any other taxes they may be liable for. |
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How much outside income can a Member earn in a year? |
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Members can earn an amount equal to 15% of their Congressional salary from outside sources, but with many restrictions. |
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How are Congressional raises determined? |
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Raises are currently automatic, based on the yearly raise of all other Federal employees. |
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Who decides how much to pay Congress? |
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Congress does, and their actions are public. |
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How much do Members of Congress get paid? |
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Representatives and Senators currently earn $174,000 per year. |
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