Montgomery, AL – A judge has extended an order blocking Alabama's two-year college system from requiring employees who serve in the Legislature to use leave time to attend sessions.
Montgomery County Circuit Judge Johnny Hardwick ruled Friday that the policy should not be enforced until he decides on a challenge brought by lawmakers.
The policy is related to another that bans system employees from also holding elected office, a practice dubbed ``double dipping'' by critics.
Hardwick said the extension will last until he makes a final ruling on both policies and said a decision could come as early as Feb. 22.
He had previously suspended the policy for 20 days after it prevented affected legislators from attending the first few days of the 2010 session.
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