New Knesset Members to Receive Generous Package Including Salary, Car, and Staff

Approximately 45 individuals are expected to become first-time members of the 26th Knesset, Israel's parliament. Upon taking office, these new lawmakers will receive a monthly salary of around 48,700 shekels before taxes. In addition to their salary, each member will be provided with a service vehicle or a transportation expense allowance, and the ability to hire up to three parliamentary assistants. The number of new members is based on recent polling data, with Gadi Eisenkot's "Yashar!" party anticipated to have the most new representatives, followed by the "Likud" party. New MKs will begin receiving their salaries after swearing the oath of office. The current salary reflects a 2.4% increase implemented earlier in the year after a three-year freeze. Pension contributions for retirement and professional development are also part of the benefits, a system that replaced the parliamentary pension in 2003. Communication expenses, including a mobile phone, are covered by the budget. Members residing outside Jerusalem may also receive up to 5,000 shekels monthly for housing rental assistance in the capital and its vicinity. The parliamentary assistants hired by MKs are considered civil servants, with their salaries paid directly from the Knesset budget. Each MK is allocated approximately 95,000 to 100,000 shekels annually for public outreach activities, which can be used for social media advertising, consultations, and printed materials, requiring supporting documentation for reimbursement. Once sworn in, MKs gain the ability to introduce legislation, submit inquiries to ministers, and propose agenda items for plenary sessions. They also participate in Knesset committees, reviewing bills and overseeing government operations. Knesset members are granted legal immunity, protecting them from criminal or civil liability for their actions and statements made in their official capacity, a protection that extends beyond their term. In certain cases, parliamentary consent is required for the criminal prosecution of a sitting MK.