The salary does not include benefits and per diem.

The value of the old compensation package was $54,922, Gilbert said.

Panel members expressed concern about the need to attract quality lawmakers and about the public perception of a pay hike.

Member Brandon Long said if the pay is kept low, then those right out of college, at the end of their career or the wealthy will be the ones attracted to the job.

He said it is an around-the-clock job that requires a huge sacrifice.

“These are people setting the policy for our state,” Long said.

Chairman Robert P. DeNegri said the only thing residents will focus on is the increase.

“Understand what it is going to look like for taxpayers,” DeNegri said.

A lot of residents have lost jobs, he said. The board needs to find a balance, DeNegri said.

The head of the state teachers union said lawmakers should be paid enough that public office remains open to all.