Jury Pay

Gov. George Deukmejian has insulted all jurors in California! By his ill-considered veto of SB 501, which would have increased jurors’ pay from $5 to $10 per day, he has clearly demonstrated that he confuses meanness with frugality. Both the Senate and the Assembly voted unanimously to grant a small increase to jurors. Many are not paid for their service by employers. It is a hardship for many retirees and other low-income persons to be compelled to finance their own jury expenses. The diligent Night Stalker jurors endured seven months of grueling service at $5 per day. It’s hard work!

As the original proponent of this bill I am ashamed of our governor and his irresponsible veto. I speak as a former juror who has served seven periods of jury service proudly.

ROBERT G. MAHAFFEY

Pasadena