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A legislator is an elected official. There are few specific job requirements for legislators. There is a minimum age requirement that varies from 18 to 26 years old. This age limit is set by each state. In addition, legislators must be registered voters in their districts. However, in order to get elected to a state legislature, an individual must be able to make a convincing case to the voters that he or she is capable of representing their interests at the state capitol. In most cases, the candidate must also be able to raise money and recruit campaign volunteers.
Salaries for legislators vary widely. According to a 2008 survey by the National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL), California pays $116,098 per year while New Hampshire pays $200. Legislative pay may also include automobile allowances and per diem pay that offers an additional amount for each day the legislature is in session. The NCSL survey reports that California pays $170 each day in per diem while Rhode Island offers no per diem pay.
While any occupation can eventually lead to a position as a legislator, there are several career paths that have led to successful careers for a number of legislators. Work as a legislative assistant helps an individual to learn the issues and the legislative process. Talented assistants often gain recognition from community leaders and political parties that helps them make the connections they need to run a successful campaign for legislative office.
Another well-worn path to becoming a legislator is holding a local elected office. City council members, county supervisors, county commissioners and school board members frequently move up to the state legislature. While these local offices still require winning an election, they tend to be less costly and competitive than legislative races.
A third way to become a legislator is to become active in politics. Hard-working political activists meet many like-minded people who are interested in supporting candidates for legislator. Some of these individuals may be able to contribute money to a campaign while others can help with significant volunteer efforts. In areas where political parties are strong, the party may choose legislative candidates from among its loyal workers.
