The Texas House of Representatives has voted to approve a measure that would provide back pay to state Attorney General Ken Paxton. The move comes after Paxton’s salary was reduced in 2015 due to budget cuts for his office. The proposal would restore his salary to its original amount and provide him with back pay for the years since the cut was implemented.
The measure, which was approved with a vote of 94-51, is seen as a push to address what some lawmakers see as unfair treatment of Paxton. Supporters argue that Paxton has been unfairly penalized for budget cuts that were beyond his control. They believe that restoring his salary and providing him with back pay is a matter of fairness.
Opponents of the measure, however, argue that Paxton should not be rewarded for his legal troubles and ethical issues. Paxton is currently facing multiple legal challenges, including a criminal indictment for securities fraud and a whistleblower lawsuit. Critics say that rewarding him with back pay sends the wrong message and undermines efforts to hold public officials accountable.
Despite the controversy surrounding Paxton, the measure to provide him with back pay is expected to move forward. The proposal now heads to the Texas Senate for consideration. If approved by the Senate, Paxton could soon receive the back pay that he has been seeking since his salary was reduced in 2015.
Overall, the Texas House’s decision to approve back pay for Attorney General Ken Paxton has sparked a heated debate among lawmakers and the public. Supporters view it as a matter of fairness, while opponents see it as a questionable reward for a public official facing legal challenges. The final decision now rests with the Texas Senate.
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