News Summary
State Senator Wes Climer from Rock Hill, South Carolina has filed a lawsuit to block an $18,000 pay raise for state legislators included in the 2026 budget. Climer argues that the proposed increase violates constitutional guidelines limiting lawmakers’ ability to adjust their own compensation. The lawsuit includes conservative activist Carol Herring and targets state Treasurer Curtis Loftis. With public dissent growing among lawmakers, the South Carolina Supreme Court will review the case, as the pay adjustment is set to take effect in 2025-26 fiscal year.
Rock Hill, South Carolina – State Senator Wes Climer, a Republican, has initiated a lawsuit aiming to halt a proposed $18,000 pay increase for state legislators planned for the 2026 budget. The lawsuit has been filed against the South Carolina Supreme Court, highlighting concerns over constitutional adherence regarding lawmakers’ compensation.
The significant pay increase, which would see in-district expenses rise from $1,000 to $2,500 monthly, has drawn scrutiny from Climer, who argues that this move violates Article III, Section 19 of the South Carolina Constitution. This section explicitly prohibits members of the General Assembly from raising their own per diem pay. Climer asserts that any adjustments to compensation should occur only after a new General Assembly is sworn in, following the elections in November 2026.
Joining Climer in the lawsuit is Carol Herring, a conservative activist from Rock Hill and a board member of the South Carolina Federation of Republican Women. Herring is participating in her capacity as a private citizen. The lawsuit specifically targets the office of state Treasurer Curtis Loftis, which manages the disbursement of payments to lawmakers.
As it stands, state legislators currently receive a salary of $10,400 annually, a figure that has remained unchanged since 1990. Additionally, legislators are entitled to a per diem rate of $231 to cover meal and lodging expenses during legislative sessions. The last modification to in-district compensation occurred in 1995.
The proposed adjustment to compensation is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025, as part of the budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year. In light of this, Climer and his attorney, former Democratic state Senator Dick Harpootlian, are seeking an immediate injunction against the pay raise, citing concerns over “irreparable harm” to public interests.
The South Carolina Supreme Court is currently reviewing the request to fast-track a decision regarding the pay raise’s constitutionality. The state has been instructed to submit its response by June 16, 2025, which will assist in expediting the case.
While some lawmakers support the increase, claiming it is necessary given the rising costs associated with serving their districts and the infrequent adjustments to pay, Climer maintains that the manner in which the raise was approved lacked transparency. He emphasizes the importance of adhering to constitutional guidelines regarding legislative pay.
In a show of dissent against the raise, several lawmakers, including Climer, have publicly opted out of accepting the additional pay. Additionally, 34 members of the House have expressed their unwillingness to accept the increase. The situation has garnered various opinions among legislators, with differing views on the necessity and appropriateness of the proposed compensation adjustments.
Governor Henry McMaster signed the budget with the pay raise included but did not exercise his veto power over the provision. The Governor justified the decision by asserting that the pay increase is essential for lawmakers to manage their district expenses efficiently.
The unfolding legal scenario highlights significant debates in South Carolina regarding lawmaker compensation and raises broader questions about governance and accountability within the legislative process. As the court takes on this case, the implications of its ruling will likely resonate throughout the state’s political landscape.
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Additional Resources
- WRDW: Legal Challenge Over Lawmaker Pay Raise
- WISTV: SC Senator Files Legal Challenge
- AP News: South Carolina Legislature Pay Raise Lawsuit
- Live 5 News: State Senator on Legal Fight
- Wikipedia: Lawmakers’ Pay Raise
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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