(a) In a county with a population of 1,300,000 and under 1,400,000, as determined by the 1970 federal census, regular official reporters shall be paid at a salary rate established by joint action and approval of the board of supervisors and a majority of the judges of the court.

Except as provided herein, the initial hiring rate for each position shall be step A, provided further, however, the judges of the superior court may appoint any such court reporter at a higher initial step if in the opinion of the judges of the superior court an individual to be appointed has such experience and qualification as to entitle that individual to such higher initial step. A step advancement from step A to step B may be granted on the first day of the month following the completion of 12 full months of service in the position. A person may advance to steps C, D, and E upon completion of successive 12-month periods of service. All merit increases as provided herein shall be made at the determination of the judges of the superior court. A court reporter employed prior to November 15, 1977, and currently employed shall receive a monthly and annual salary at step E.

(b) Official phonographic reporters pro tempore shall be compensated at a rate established by joint action and approval of the board of supervisors and a majority of the judges of the court.

(c) Each reporter shall cooperate with county personnel in any random job reviews for the purpose of confirming hours spent in attendance upon the courts for the purpose of reporting proceedings.

(d) During the hours which the court is open for the transaction of judicial business, official reporters shall devote full time to the performance of the duties required of them by law and shall not engage in or solicit to engage in any other employment in their professional capacity.

(Amended by Stats. 1991, Ch. 1090, Sec. 21.)