Saturday, May 25, 2013

News
Rep. Chris Tuck Responds to Questions About Per Diem, Leave
Lawmakers respond to questions about the rules governing per diem pay for attending the special legislative session in Juneau.
By KTVA CBS 11


Rep. Chris Tuck, Anchorage-D

Thanks for asking, the public deserves to know.  I flew back to Anchorage on legislative business, and had official appointments each day I was back.  I have to pay to maintain my place of residence in Juneau for the remainder of the special session, and did not claim additional travel per diem for this trip.

Additionally, I paid for this trip myself.  My caucus has a policy that only two trips will be paid out of the travel budget for constituent work. However, constituent work is required year-round and requires additional travel during special session.

Because legislators have to maintain two households while serving in Juneau, it seems relatively fair for legislators to claim per diem when going home to take care of personal business.  That way, the cost of hotel or rent due to session is covered.  It should be limited and I agree, the voters should hold their elected officials accountable.