Legislature Per Diem Limits Put Off Over Fairness Questions

State Sen. Bill Ketron of Murfreesboro says per diem scrutiny should apply to everyone. Image courtesy Ketron Campaign

A proposal meant to stop legislators who live near the state capitol from receiving money for hotel rooms and meals has been delayed. One affected lawmaker accused those from farther away of taking advantage of per diem rates too.

On top of their part-time salary and mileage reimbursement, legislators can also claim nearly $180 a day for expenses.

The bill being considered makes that money off limits for those who live less than 50 miles from the capitol, saving an estimated $250,000 a year.

Murfreesboro Senator Bill Ketron received more than $16,000 in per diem payments last year. During a committee hearing, he introduced changes that would put more scrutiny on everyone’s per diem.

“If we’re doing it for those who are under 50 miles, we should address those over 50 miles who are milking the system.”

Some lawmakers share hotel rooms or – in rare instances – sleep in their offices. Ketron’s amendment requiring them to turn in hotel receipts resulted in putting off a vote for at least a week.