(AP) - Gov. David Paterson is considering a newinterpretation of the state constitution by good-governmentadvocates and legal scholars that would allow him to appoint alieutenant governor to address the month-long standoff in theSenate.

A Republican-dominated coalition says that even if theDemocratic governor appoints a lieutenant governor to preside overthe Senate, the result would be lawsuits and no real resolution tothe conflict.

Meanwhile, senators who've been at odds since June 8 arescheduled to have their first paycheck withheld Wednesday.

In court filings Monday, Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli is asking astate judge to confirm the comptroller has the power to hold uplawmakers' pay and determine who in the Senate has the power toauthorize paychecks.