California gives its lawmakers unlimited gas cards

What's up with California's lawmakers? First, they pass legislation that makes it illegal to use cell phones while driving, yet texting while behind the wheel is still legal (thankfully rectified earlier this week). Now they get caught with unchecked, taxpayer-reimbursed, unlimited-use gas cards...while driving state-issued vehicles! The "gas cards" are supposed to be used for fuel, but they can also be used for incidental purchases such as snacks or drinks. The lawmakers never see the bills as they are sent directly to the Senate and Assembly rules committees for payment. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, the golden state of California is unique with this program -- in most other states (not facing $15 billion budget deficits) lawmakers must submit expense forms for gas. Yeah, just like the rest of us do...

[Source: AOL Autos]