For those demanding proof of the $491,000 annual perks and benefits package that all members of Congress receive in addition to their average $186,375 salary:
- Health care benefits
- Vacation
- Premium retirement fund with hedge fund reinforcement
- Per Diem (at $272 per day) for every day Congress “does business”
- Annual 4% Cost of Living Increase
- All commute expenses to/from Washington
- Domestic Travel, Lodging & expenses
- Foreign Travel, Lodging & expenses
- Cell phone & Internet service
- Meals/Entertainment & expenses
- 18-person staff allowance (up to $167,200 per staff member)
- Wardrobe & maintenance allowance
- Mail/franking, personalized stationery, docs/pubs, including full personalized leather-bound judicial & encyclopaedic reference library
- Legal representation excluding felony criminal prosecution
- Notary Public services
- Courier services
There’s a LOT more. Check for yourself if you’re still in doubt.
Full breakdown of Congressional pay, perquisites and benefits
Posted in: Political Observations
Cory
August 19, 2011
Thanks for using the time and effort to write such an interesting and informative blog.