No Free Ride

Sacramento, CA — A state commission has voted to reduce the vehicle perks given to California lawmakers.

The state has been providing leased vehicles, insurance, repairs and gas for lawmakers. It costs taxpayers around $7,500 a year for each member of the Senate and Assembly. The Associated Press reports that the Citizens Compensation Commission voted Thursday to replace the program with a flat $300 a month payment to legislators, or $3,600 a year.

Lawmakers will be asked to return state provided cars in December and start using their personal vehicles when traveling around their district.

The commission made no changes to the salaries of lawmakers.