Per diem dust-up raises questions

Legislative leaders say there’s no easy solution to address questions surrounding how much Idaho lawmakers are entitled to receive toward their expenses.

State legislators received a total of nearly $1 million in per diem payments this year — money they can spend however they want with no accountability.

Scrutiny of the system increased this year when Idaho Falls Republican Rep. Janet Trujillo received an extra $6,400 to cover the cost of living in a separate residence during the legislative session in Boise, even though she is married to House Majority Leader Mike Moyle, who lives roughly 20 miles away from the Statehouse.

According to legislative rules, Trujillo didn’t violate the system, but the situation has sparked renewed interest in possible changes/ Betsy Russell , SR. More here.