VI. Step Increases

Aglet proposed, in addition to a COLA, that we include "step increases" within each rate range, based on the experience level of the representative. As an example, Aglet described the step increase process now applicable to State employees, where salary scales allow for annual increases, or steps, up to the maximum within a given range. The State step increase process generally includes up to five steps of 5% each, with those entering at a mid-level step limited to one or two increases before reaching the maximum. Aglet suggests we consider a step increase element be included here, with at least two steps within each range. We agree with Aglet. A step increase will allow representatives within a given level of experience, otherwise who might be limited to a COLA, to seek rates more in line with others having similar training and experience.

Beginning with work performed in 2007, we will allow intervenor representatives to request annually a step increase of 5% above their adopted rates from the previous year. The step increase is in addition to any authorized COLA. Step increases are subject to the following conditions:

· Representatives will be limited to two step increases within any given level of experience. For example, an attorney with nine years experience in 2006 (in the 8-12 year experience level) may request a 5% step increase for 2007 work, and another 5% step increase for 2008 work, but no more. That same attorney would be eligible for additional step increases upon reaching the 13-plus year experience level.

· Step increases may not result in rates above the highest rate for any given range, for a given year. An attorney with nine years experience, for example, and with a previously adopted rate at the high end of the 8-12 year level, would not be eligible for a step increase. Similarly, that same attorney with a previously adopted rate 5% less than the maximum would be eligible for only one step increase while in the 8-12 year level.