(AP) — Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka says she's instructed her staff to begin re-issuing legislators' paychecks after a judge ruled that Gov. Pat Quinn doesn't have the constitutional authority to withhold them.

Topinka told reporters Thursday that lawmakers who get their paychecks with direct deposit should get paid by Friday. She says for those who rely on physical paychecks, it'll take a little longer. Lawmakers had missed two paychecks were due to miss a third next week.

Quinn halted them over inaction on the pension crisis.

Judge Neil Cohen ruled Thursday that Quinn's action is unconstitutional. Cohen says the state Constitution makes it clear lawmakers' pay can't be changed while serving they're serving their terms.

Quinn says he's appeal the decision and will a stay until a higher court makes a decision.

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn's decision to halt state lawmakers' pay over the state's pension crisis is unconstitutional and the Chicago Democrat must move to reinstate salaries immediately, a Cook County judge ruled Thursday.

Cohen issued his eight-page decision in a lawsuit brought by House Speaker Michael Madigan and Senate President John Cullerton. Cohen said Quinn did not have the power to withhold pay while lawmakers were serving their current terms. Quinn must order Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka to restore salaries, with interest, immediately.

"(The) Illinois Constitution grants the governor authority to reduce items of appropriation," Cohen wrote. "The governor cannot, however, exercise his authority in a manner which violates another constitutional provision."

Quinn's office didn't immediately respond to requests for comment.