What is the makeup of the state Legislature?

The Legislature consists of two chambers, with 25 members in the Senate and 51 in the House of Representatives.

In addition, the 200 or so year-round employees will be joined by more than 400 temporary staff members who work while the Legislature is in session.

When does the session begin?

Opening Day ceremonies begin at 10 a.m. Wednesday. In addition to speeches by the leaders in the Senate and House, Opening Day generally features entertainment and an opportunity to meet and mingle with lawmakers after the session.

Are the Opening Day ceremonies open to the public?

Yes, but be warned that parking will be tight and seats limited in the chambers during the session. Many legislators will open their offices and offer refreshments, but don't expect a free-for-all, warns House Chief Clerk Patricia Mau-Shimizu.

Mau-Shimizu also notes that since this is the second year of the biennium (each Legislature lasts for two years) a smaller crowd is expected, and some lawmakers may opt to close their offices and have private celebrations.

How long does the legislative session last?

The session lasts for 60 working days, beginning at 10 a.m. on the third Wednesday in January. This year the session adjourns May 4.

How much are legislators paid?

Legislators receive $34,200 a year, except for the House speaker and Senate president, who each receive $41,700.

Can legislators hold other jobs?

Yes. Elected House and Senate positions are not generally considered full-time jobs. Many lawmakers maintain careers in addition to their elected posts.

How long are their terms?

Senators are elected to four-year terms and House members serve two years. That means all House members are up for election this year, as are 13 seats in the Senate. Visit www.hawaii.gov/elections to see a list of seats up for grabs.

Can I visit the Capitol?

Sure. The building is open to the public and hearings are generally open, although not every hearing offers the opportunity for oral testimony. Visit the Public Access Room — Room 401 — if you need help getting started.

Are tours of the Capitol offered?

Yes. Tours are given Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1:30 p.m., starting in Room 415. Schools and large groups also can make special arrangements by calling the Capitol Tours coordinator at 586-0178.

If I go on my own, is there anything to watch for?

You might want to take in some of the architectural features. The House and Senate chambers are cone-shaped to symbolize volcanoes, the building columns represent palm trees and the pool surrounding the building represents Hawai'i's status as the nation's only island state.

Monuments on the Capitol grounds include statues of Father Damien and Queen Lili'uokalani, the liberty bell and the Korean/ Vietnam War Memorial.

Is there parking at the Capitol?

There is limited metered parking in the Capitol's underground parking garage, which can be accessed from Miller Street. There are more metered spaces at 'Iolani Palace and along the streets bordering the Capitol.

Reach Treena Shapiro at tshapiro@honoluluadvertiser.com.