Congress allots operating funds

WASHINGTON – Congress would get about the same $2.75 billion for its own operations in 2005 as this year, and lawmakers would get a chance for enhanced dental and other benefits under a bill the House easily cleared on Monday.

The overall measure, approved 327-43, is $2 million below the amount provided this year for the House and congressional agencies like the Congressional Budget Office. The Senate will add money for its own operations when it writes its version of the bill.

The measure would permit an in-house study – estimated to cost $175,000 – on whether to improve the dental, vision and hearing benefits available to House members and their aides. Congress voted last year to block such a study.

Lawmakers and staff currently receive limited coverage, such as pre-tax deductions from their salaries that can be spent on such benefits.