Knesset Freezes Members' Salaries Amid Economic Challenges and Allocates Savings to Wartime Efforts

In a unanimous decision led by MK Ofir Katz, the Knesset committee voted to freeze the salaries of Knesset members, diverting between 6 and 8 million NIS from the state budget to critical wartime purposes. The move, endorsed by the public committee for determining Knesset salaries, comes as a response to economic challenges faced by the nation.

Subheading 2: Opposition and Coalition Unite in Support of Economic Solidarity

Last week, Knesset Chairman MK Amir Ohana appealed to the public committee, urging them to recommend the cancellation of the expected salary increase for Knesset members in January 2024. Members from both the opposition and the coalition rallied behind the call for economic solidarity, emphasizing the need for shared sacrifices in the country's rehabilitation efforts.

Subheading 3: Broader Measures Approved, Including Knesset Budget Cuts

In addition to freezing salaries, the committee approved a budget cut of 80 million shekels for 2023. This cut includes reductions in advertising, information sections, and building renovations. The funds will be reallocated to support the national budget during the "Iron Swords" war, addressing pressing issues such as aid for abductees and evacuees.

Subheading 4: Finance Committee Urges Wider Salary Freeze

MK Moshe Gafni, Chairman of the Finance Committee, expressed strong opposition to salary increases for public officials in the current situation. He declared, "It is unacceptable that the salary of Knesset members, ministers, and judges would increase in such a situation," and hinted at broader recommendations for other public officials, including the President and the President of the Supreme Court, to freeze their salaries.

Subheading 5: Freeze Aimed at Mitigating Economic Impact on Citizens

A senior official from the Ministry of Finance highlighted the intention to freeze the average wage in the economy to prevent increases in property tax and electricity rates. This decision aims to alleviate the economic burden on citizens during challenging times, with potential cascading effects on various financial obligations tied to the average wage.

Closing Note: Salaries to Remain Unchanged Until January 2025, Impact on Key Figures

The decision means that the salary of Knesset members, currently at NIS 47,583, will not see an expected increase in January 2024. The freeze will persist until January 2025, with adjustments based on the change in the average salary. This decision also affects the salaries of other key figures, including the President of the Supreme Court, currently at NIS 109,000, and other senior officials.