Oh, I just love this. And the fact that it's a bipartisan
bill, all the better. No doubt, it will have some lawmakers jumping out of their seats in protest. A turbulent new legislation was introduced in April, that would prevent Congress members from getting a free ride - well, a free ride in
First Class, that is. No more extra legroom, special service, and free drinks on the taxpayers dime.
The bill was introduced by Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.) and Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.). Christina Marcos with The Hill explains:
Each lawmaker is allotted funds known as a Member Representational Allowance to pay for running their offices, including staff salaries and office supplies.
The bill from Gosar and Ruiz, titled the Coach-Only Airfare for Capitol Hill (COACH) Act, would mandate that lawmakers and staffers can only fly first-class with personal funds. It would permit exceptions for first-class travel to accommodate disabilities or other medical needs.
In a joint statement by Gosar and Ruiz, the two lawmakers exclaim:
"Members of Congress are public servants of the people and should not be considered a privileged status."
Wait,
what?
So far, 14 lawmakers have co-sponsored the bill - ten Republicans and five Democrats. Come on, Dems! Let's get this passed. Time to get off your asses and get in the back of the bus with 'the people.' (You might learn something.)
There is only one thing is missing from this delightful bill. Congress members should be assigned to 'middle seats' only. We want to be able to love on them.
(Special thanks to Rachael Christine, who shares the best stories!)