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PHOENIX — Republican legislative leaders have decided to challenge Gov. Janet Napolitano's latest use of the line-item veto in court.

Senate Majority Leader Tim Bee, R-Tucson, said Wednesday that if the governor's decision to strike five lines from a measure authorizing a state pay raise is allowed to stand, it would upset the constitutional balance of power between the executive and legislative branches.

And House Majority Leader Steve Tully, R-Phoenix, said there is no way the governor's action fits within her legal powers. He said allowing this veto to stand would essentially be giving Napolitano — and any future governor — a free hand to excise any piece of any legislation not desired.

The language, stricken from a measure giving state employees raises, would have denied new workers who made over a certain amount the ability to challenge or appeal demotions and terminations under state personnel rules.

Napolitano defended her action Wednesday, saying the language creates financial disparities between employees and adds to the cost of government. She predicted she would be vindicated in court.

Bee said legislative leaders are exploring the mechanics of what they need to do to get formal authorization from the full Legislature to file suit. A vote of the House and Senate is likely before the end of the week.