The nation's only unsalaried state legislature is considering whether it wants a steady paycheck.
Legislation proposed in New Mexico ahead of the January legislative session would provide lawmakers with a salary of about $45,000.
The proposal was submitted to the state House of Representatives by Republican Terry McMillan of Las Cruces. Approval looks unlikely because legislative salaries are not part of initial budget recommendations from the governor and legislature.
New Mexico lawmakers receive retirement benefits and per diem compensation of $163. That covers work during legislative sessions that last 30 and 60 days in alternating years as well as committee work. Per diem compensation can add up to more than $25,000 a year in some instances.
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