Conclusion
The distinction between constitutional rules and post-constitutional laws is often a fine line. However, this analysis suggests that, in the case of state legislative pay, constitutional rules are much more binding than post-constitutional restrictions. Further research in the area of constitutions from an economic point of view may yield fruitful results. As Tullock (1988: 140) has stated, “The real importance of such an evaluation could be as a first step toward developing improved constitutional rules.” Evaluating other areas of policy from a “constitutional” point of view might shed light on the path towards the development of optimal rules in a democratic process.
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Thanks go to Randy Holcombe for helpful comments and suggestions.
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Sollars, D.L. A constitutional view of legislative pay. Public Choice 67, 81–86 (1990). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01890158
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01890158