COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - The House has agreed to look into a lawmaker’s contention that statewide officers in South Carolina are not paid enough.
House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford said Tuesday that lawmakers’ compensation prevents many people from seeking office. The Columbia Democrat said he didn’t speak to any statewide officer about his request. Republicans occupy all nine constitutional offices.
Rutherford says the system shouldn’t lead to only the rich being able to run. He says anyone who disagrees doesn’t want government to function properly.
His amendment to the House budget plan passed on a voice vote.
Legislators and statewide officers haven’t had a salary increase since 1994.
By law, the governor receives $106,100 yearly. The attorney general, superintendent, treasurer, comptroller general, secretary of state, adjutant general, and agriculture commissioner receive $92,000. The lieutenant governor receives $46,500.
Legislators earn $10,400.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.