Legislature's Pay Increase in Legal Limbo
State constitution bans immediate pay hikes, prompting lawsuit.
Wes Climer argued legislature violated the constitution.
Court questioned labeling of 'in-district compensation' fund as expense.
Legislature's first pay change in over 30 years since 1988.
Chief Justice John Kittredge noted pay name change from 'expense allowance'.
Legislators face delays, using personal funds for town halls.
Combined pay of $22,400 lags behind many states.
Part-time legislators receive $10,400 for four months.
2 weeks ago