SD Senate Approves Boost In Expenses For Lawmakers

The South Dakota Senate has approved an increase in the daily allowance state lawmakers get to cover the cost of lodging, meals and other expenses during the annual legislative sessions.

Senators voted 18-15 to pass a bill increasing the current expense payment of $110 a day to $123 a day. The bill now returns to the House, which must consider a change the Senate made in the measure.

The bill does not change the $6,000 annual salary paid to lawmakers.

Supporters say the increase in the daily expense payment is needed because it has not been raised in 13 years.

Opponents say lawmakers should not increase the payment in the middle of their current term.