Because lawmakers from Tinian and Rota have been getting the “illegal” allowance anyway, Tenorio, Covenant-Saipan, wanted Saipan members to get it, too, through House Resolution 17-49.
Pre-filed last month, H.R. 17-49 will amend House rules to permit a $2,000 monthly subsistence allowance for all House members.
Currently, only the six senators and two representatives from Tinian and Rota each receive $4,250 in subsistence allowance “to defray the costs of food, lodging and other incidental expenses.”
Tenorio told reporters that it is supposed to be illegal for lawmakers to have such an allowance but since no one is looking into it, all members might as well get it too.
But because he did not have enough votes on Tuesday, Tenorio said he would have to change his resolution.
He now wants House members from Rota and Tinian to justify their subsistence allowance. They should be required to fill out forms and indicate all their expenses.
Rep. Teresita A. Santos, Ind.-Rota, said she will comment once Tenorio introduces the resolution today.
