Previous Story
Norita calls hearing on part-time legislature
|
Posted on Nov 13 2004
Anybody wanting to support or oppose the proposed creation of a part-time legislature in the CNMI would have a chance to make a pitch when the House holds a public hearing on the issue this month.
Rep. Claudio Norita, who authored the part-time legislature initiative, has scheduled the hearing on Tuesday, Nov. 30.
So far, Norita said, he has received “very encouraging” feedback from groups and individuals.
“People are saying yes to this but we want to hear everybody,” he said.
Norita’s House Legislative Initiative 14-8 aims to make the CNMI Legislature a part-time lawmaking body. He said the new setup would save some $3.2 million for the government.
The measure provides that lawmakers would not receive their annual salary of $39,300 each. Instead they would be paid $120 if they attend a session and $60 per committee meeting.
Off-island lawmakers get $100 for airfare and $175 per diem.
Currently, the Legislature spends over $5 million every year.
Some local residents have expressed their support for the proposal, saying it is appropriate for a small community like the CNMI.
Saipan Chamber of Commerce president Alex Sablan said anything that would save government costs should be considered.
But businessman Juan S. Tenorio believes that Norita’s proposal will not work. “There would always be a conflict of interest if you allow these guys to work to earn their living. You’d see conflict left to right,” he warned.
