What happened to NOT making a killing if you are an elected official. It was never intended to be a cushy job. It was supposed to be because of someone's love for their state and/or country that they would want to be a legislator. I didn't say work for free but it wasn't supposed to be a lifetime career for all these people. Everyone is allowed to run and serve but it was never intended to be the money pit it has become. 
They need to take away all the other benefits they receive to make it a level playing field. Career corruption is what we want to avoid. Term limits should be the next step since now they feel entitled to all the fluff and benefits. 
"Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" should be required viewing to remind our legislators they are there for US, not themselves.