Committee OKs reimbursement for Assembly overnight stays

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Wisconsin Assembly members will get more money for staying overnight in Madison.

In a unanimous vote Thursday the chamber's organizational committee, led by Republican Speaker Robin Vos, increased the overnight reimbursement rate to $138 per day for food, travel and lodging expenses. That's up from $88 per day. Lawmakers who live at least part-time in Madison but represent out-state districts will get half that.

Representatives taking day trips to the capitol will see a 22 percent drop in reimbursement. Those lawmakers will receive $69 a day, down from $84.

Lawmakers do not submit receipts documenting their expenses. Vos says they operate instead on an honor system.

And for the first time lawmakers who reside within 25 miles of the Capitol and represent those districts aren't eligible for reimbursement.