Oklahoma Senate Leader Pushes Review of Lawmaker Pay Raises

Senate Leader Pushes Review of Legislative Pay Decision

Oklahoma lawmakers could see a new debate over pay raises. Senate President Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton is asking for another look at how compensation was distributed among legislators.

The Independent Legislative Compensation Board voted to give raises to leadership positions but left rank-and-file members without any increase. The decision drew criticism across both chambers, with lawmakers calling for fairness.

Paxton Calls for Reconsideration

Paxton urged the board to reconsider its earlier vote. He argued that all members serve Oklahomans and deserve equal treatment. “We can’t have two classes of lawmakers,” Paxton said. “Every member represents the people who elected them.”

The board agreed to revisit the issue during its next meeting early next month. That decision opens the door for possible adjustments before the start of the next legislative session.

Oklahoma Lawmakers Await Decision

The review will likely reignite debate over whether legislative pay should reflect seniority or leadership responsibility. Oklahoma’s legislators currently earn around $44,000 annually, not including per diem or travel.

If approved, a new pay structure could take effect next year, affecting lawmakers statewide. Until then, the political spotlight remains on Oklahoma City as residents await the board’s ruling.

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