House members return pay for special session

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) - House lawmakers returned nearly $105,000 to the state treasurer on Friday, refusing to be paid for a special legislative session in early July that they didn't take part in.

"This gives Kentucky taxpayers the clear assurance that they weren't left footing the bill for the unnecessary special session," House Speaker Jody Richards said in a statement. "We remain committed to the simple principle of no pay for no work."

The money reimburses the state for expenses and legislative salary paid to the representatives for the week of July 5-10.

House lawmakers were paid, despite their objections, because a section of the state constitution required it.

"While it is legal for us to keep this money, House Republicans feel it is neither proper nor fiscally responsible to do so," said GOP floor leader Jeff Hoover.

Florida fugitive arrested in Lexington