A time of unprecedented instability in the government began in 1892, with the previously biennial part-time legislature having its longest session.
He argued that the Council's designation as a part-time legislature was in name only.
One-party government controlled a part-time legislature that was able to rubber-stamp the executive branch of government.
Until 1985, Rockland did not even have a county executive, but was ruled by a part-time legislature and part-time boards for its five towns.
Most states have part-time legislatures.
Indiana has a part-time legislature that does not meet year-round.
The movement away from the part-time legislature is transforming state government from here to Sacramento, Calif.
But, the report said, lobbyists also wield outsized influence in states with only a part-time legislature and staff.
As a part-time legislature, compensation is low, and most senators and representatives hold jobs outside their legislative duties.
Mr. Sauer acknowledged that Connecticut has a part-time legislature, where people work a day job.