Congress is quickly eroding its moral authority to govern. The Thomas per diem plan would amend the rules governing Members Representational Allowances. It could be approved in the Administration Committee, and would not require a House floor vote. If they aren't happy with their jobs, there are plenty of good citizens willing to serve in their place. Members of Congress are already overpaid.
Top leadership earns more.
During the last ten years, House Members gave themselves five pay raises, Senators six. The Hill reported today that both Speaker Hastert and Minority Leader Gephardt are discussing the Thomas per diem plan with Members. But, then, they are the government. Congress should make the tax code simpler for all of us instead of using the tax code to give themselves a pay raise. As a phony conservative, he has no respect for the taxpayers.