Sapulpa Legislator Says Travel Reimbursements May Stop

Associated Press

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The incoming state Senate President Pro Tem says it's conceivable that reimbursement to lawmakers for travel, lodging and meals could be cut during the upcoming fiscal year.

Oklahoma legislators were paid $2.5 million in such reimbursements during the past two fiscal years. State law allows for weekly mileage reimbursements for travel to the Capitol for all legislators.

It also allows for per diem payments for lodging, meals and travel during the annual legislative session for lawmakers living more than 50 miles from the Capitol. Lawmakers would have to vote to end the payments.

Senator Brian Bingman, R-Sapulpa, told The Oklahoman that could happen as the Legislature deals with what is projected to be a budget shortfall of more than $1 billion.

Bingham did not commit to ending or suspending the payments.