Colo. legislators vary on seeking per diem in 2010

By The AP
Monday, December 20, 2010

DENVER — All Colorado legislators can seek per diem to help defray expenses, but some went without in 2010.

Lawmakers from outside the Denver metro area can receive a per diem of $150 daily, while metro-area lawmakers can get $45 daily.

The Denver Post reports that during the 2010 session, 21 of the 100 state lawmakers sought the maximum amount — or a total of $18,000 for the 120-day session. Among them was Rep. Ellen Roberts of Durango in southwest Colorado. She says it helps her rent a place in Denver.

The Post reports that Sens. Paula Sandoval and Lois Tochtrop and Rep. Lois Court, all of the Denver area, didn’t seek per diem payments in 2010 because of the state’s budget crisis.

Colorado lawmakers earn $30,000 annually.