Georgia’s House Speaker, Mitch Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) is backing a pay-raise for state politicians that would nearly double what they make now.

Lawmaker pay hasn’t changed since 1999, according to the State Compensation Commission. Consumer prices have risen 59% since then, according to federal figures.

Base pay for the 180 House members and 56 senators would rise from $16,200 a year to $29,908.

The pay hike for the legislators will cost Georgia taxpayers an additional $3.2 million per-year.

The measure would not increase retirement payments for lawmakers, but Cantrell said if the General Assembly passes his bill, he will seek to increase retirement for lawmakers next year.