Following salary increase, N.S. MLAs approve $921 hike to office budgets

The Nova Scotia Legislature recently approved a $921 increase in the constituency budgets of the 55 MLAs who serve in the provincial government. This marks the first increase in their office expenses since 2012. The decision was made by an all-party committee, which also agreed to link all future budget increases to the cost of living.

The recommendations for these changes came from an independent review panel composed of senior government officials, whose report was released in February. Cabinet minister Brendan Maguire, who had previously advocated for an increase in constituency expenses to allow MLAs to hire two assistants, expressed satisfaction with the approved changes. He stated, “I think it’s a good step, obviously. It’s good to see everybody on the committee agree to this.”

Currently, MLA office budgets range from $5,500 to $5,800 per month, depending on the size of the constituency. Opposition members, including New Democrat MLA Lisa Lachance and Liberal House leader Iain Rankin, voiced their support for the increase, emphasizing the importance of enabling MLAs to better carry out their duties. Both Lachance and Rankin found it reasonable to have the budgets automatically adjusted in line with cost-of-living increases.

In addition to the increase in constituency budgets, all three parties also agreed to raise the maximum amount that cabinet ministers and MLAs living at least 100 kilometers from Province House can spend on apartment rent to $2,100. Currently, cabinet ministers can claim up to $1,700 for their apartments, while the limit for MLAs is $1,500. The panel has recommended lowering the distance limit to 50 kilometers, making four more MLAs eligible for the housing allowance, but the government has not yet implemented this change.

A bill expected to pass this spring will formally enact the binding recommendation of the remuneration committee, which calls for MLAs to receive their first salary increase in 12 years. These developments aim to support MLAs in fulfilling their responsibilities effectively while ensuring fair compensation and living arrangements.

The approved changes reflect a collaborative effort among different political parties to address long-standing issues related to MLA expenses and allowances. By tying future budget increases to the cost of living and adjusting housing allowances, the Nova Scotia Legislature is taking steps towards modernizing its policies and practices to better serve its members and the community.