Congressional toys: Taxpayers billed for TVs, cameras and cars
Examiner Staff Writer
June 1, 2009
WHO: Members of Congress
WHAT: Federal lawmakers receive an allowance for “office equipment expenses.” Congressional rules are fairly lax about how these funds can be legally spent — as long as the goods are returned to the General Services Administration when the lawmaker leaves office.
QUESTIONABLE EXAMPLES: California Rep. Howard Berman last year billed $84,000 worth of personalized calendars for his constituents. Florida Rep. Alcee Hastings billed $24,730 to lease a 2008 Lexus hybrid. Ohio Rep. Michael Turner expensed a $1,435 digital camera. Eni Faleomavaega, the House delegate from American Samoa, bought two 46-inch televisions.
WHY IT’S A BAD IDEA: This is certainly pushing the envelope for legitimate office expenses, and obviously there are major loopholes in the rules that need closing.
