Question
What is the amendment and the reason that Congress must wait for an election before a pay raise takes effect?
Answers
GPT-4o mini
The amendment that requires Congress to wait for an election before a pay raise takes effect is the **27th Amendment** to the United States Constitution. Ratified in 1992, this amendment states that any change in the compensation for members of Congress will not take effect until after the next election of Representatives.
The reason for this provision is to prevent lawmakers from giving themselves immediate pay raises, which could create a conflict of interest and undermine accountability. By delaying the raise until after the next election, it ensures that voters have the opportunity to assess the actions of their representatives and respond at the polls if they disagree with decisions regarding compensation. This mechanism promotes a sense of responsibility among legislators regarding their pay.
The reason for this provision is to prevent lawmakers from giving themselves immediate pay raises, which could create a conflict of interest and undermine accountability. By delaying the raise until after the next election, it ensures that voters have the opportunity to assess the actions of their representatives and respond at the polls if they disagree with decisions regarding compensation. This mechanism promotes a sense of responsibility among legislators regarding their pay.