Texan politicians, and many on the right often complain about the Federal government and “career politicians” in Washington, there is still much to be done here in Texas to let the sunshine in.

The Tribune has a great piece on the current practice of “double dipping” as it’s known. The British Government over the past few years has forced the funding of politicians and their outside interests into the sunlight. Often with excruciating detail on what are in many ways, trivial amounts of money. While money in politics in both countries is still sky rocketing, the direct pay of politicians has to be more transparent.

The Tribune reports:

“While Texas legislators are considered part-time state employees and make only $600 a month in salary, they have uncommonly generous pensions. A legislator can get one after just eight years and, with 12 years of service, can begin receiving a guaranteed annuity at age 50.”

And the pension is not tied to a legislators meager salary but rather to the pay of a state district judge, now set at $140,000. It gets even better for long-serving members of the elected class. Those who meet the longevity requirements can “retire” and keep their state salaries without leaving office.

That’s what Perry did, quietly, in early 2011. As a result, he immediately increased his take-home pay by $92,000. He kept his job and the $150,000 salary that goes with it.”

via Efforts Targeting Double Dipping Could Get Boost | The Texas Tribune.