I'd worry if the people interviewing me couldn't give me a decision on the money. It implies they are not the decision maker. This means that if hired I would struggle to get a pay raise because my manager would always be looking apologetic and saying "I'd like to pay you more...but it's not my decision." What else are they not in control of. My training? My appraisals?

If you were buying a car and the salesperson said "I can't make a decision on that discount" you'd ask to see the person that could. Should be the same in the job market.