Am I a States Member straight away?

No. There is about a week between getting the results of the Election and new States members being sworn in.

This allows time for a recount (if one is called for). It also provides an opportunity for you to start learning your way around the States, and getting to know your fellow candidates. Make the most of it.

The old States was officially the government throughout the Election period, and remains the government until the end of term on 15 October. Although it is common practice to limit the amount of business done during this time, some Committees have had to (or will still have to) submit policy letters during this period.

Sometimes this is needed, for example, because changes have to be made before the start of a new calendar year. This means you’ll have to consider proposals at your November or December meetings. The best way of giving you the opportunity to do that is to get policy letters lodged before the end of this term. Once you are sworn in, and new Committees have been established, you are within your rights to reject, amend, or even withdraw, any policy letters that have been lodged by the States before you. But if you’re going to do that, try to understand why the previous States submitted this proposal, in this way, at this time before you do.

So you’ve got about a week to get used to the idea of being a Deputy before you officially become one. Make the most of this to get to know your future colleagues, to learn about the way that the States and its Committees work, and to get yourself set up with the equipment you need to do the job. Take up any induction opportunities you’re offered. One of the very first proper States Meetings you have will be approving the Budget for 2021, so the next few weeks are going to be pretty full-on.