By Alabama Public Radio
Montgomery, AL – Before ending its session at midnight Monday, the Alabama Legislature did vote to restore longevity raises for circuit and district judges. State Representative Demetrius Newton pushed for the resumption of longevity raises. Newton says the raises are needed to keep good judges in their jobs. The resolution has now gone to Governor Riley. The Governor's spokesperson says the legal staff is reviewing whether Riley has the authority to sign or veto the resolution. The longevity raises were suspended in 2004. But both the House and Senate voted to resume them. The raises amount to 1.25 percent for each year of service up to 20 years.