Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage

Changes from August 13, 2020 to March 24, 2022

This page shows textual changes in the document between the two versions indicated in the dates above. Textual matter removed in the later version is indicated with ~~red strikethrough~~ and textual matter added in the later version is indicated with blue.

Members’ Representational Allowance:
~~August 13, 2020~~March 24, 2022
History and Usage
Ida A. Brudnick
Members of the House of Representatives have one consolidated allowance, the Members’ Members of the House of Representatives have one consolidated allowance, the Members’
Specialist on the Congress Specialist on the Congress
Representational Allowance (MRA), with which to operate their offices. The MRA was first Representational Allowance (MRA), with which to operate their offices. The MRA was first

authorized in 1996 and was made subject to regulations and adjustments of the Committee on authorized in 1996 and was made subject to regulations and adjustments of the Committee on
House Administration. Representatives have a high degree of flexibility to use the MRA to House Administration. Representatives have a high degree of flexibility to use the MRA to

operate their offices in a way that supports their congressional duties and responsibilities, and operate their offices in a way that supports their congressional duties and responsibilities, and
individual office spending may be as varied as the districts Members represent.individual office spending may be as varied as the districts Members represent.
~~Over the last decade,~~ Following FY2010, when the appropriation for the MRA the appropriation for the MRA
~~ reached a high in FY2010 of $660.0 million;~~
reached its prior peak of $660.0 million, the account  decreased in FY2011, FY2012, decreased in FY2011, FY2012, and FY2013 (-7.1%, -6.4%, and -5.2%, respectively); and FY2013 (-7.1%, -6.4%, and -5.2%, respectively);
 increased  increased infrom FY2013 to FY2014 (+1.9%) FY2014 (+1.9%) ~~and~~ ;  remained flat in FY2015remained flat in FY2015 (0.0%)(0.0%) ~~and~~;  remained flat in FY2016 (0.0%); FY2016 (0.0%);
 increased from FY2016 increased from FY2016 to FY2017to FY2017 (+1.5%)(+1.5%) ~~and~~ ;  remained flat in remained flat in ~~2018~~FY2018 (0.0%); (0.0%);
 increased from FY2018 increased from FY2018 to FY2019to FY2019 (+2.0%); (+2.0%); ~~and~~
 increased from FY2019 increased from FY2019 to FY2020to FY2020 (+7.2%)(+7.2%).
~~The House requested $672.0 (+9.3%) for FY2021. The House-reported bill recommended $640.0 million (+4.1%).~~
~~The reduction in the overall MRA appropriation from its FY2010 peak corresponded with a reduction to the individual MRA~~
~~authorization for each Member, which is available for expenses incurred fro m January 3 of each year through January 2 of~~
~~the following year.~~ ;  increased from FY2020 to FY2021 (+4.1%); and  increased from FY2021 to FY2022 (+21.0%). While the FY2022 enacted level of $774.4 million represents the first appropriation to exceed the FY2010 level in current dollars, it remains below the FY2010 level in constant (inflation-adjusted) dollars by approximately 6%. Although operating on a different timeline, changes to the authorizations for individual offices follow a similar pattern.  In the 112th Congress, the House agreed to H.Res. 22, which reduced the amount authorized for salaries In the 112th Congress, the House agreed to H.Res. 22, which reduced the amount authorized for salaries
and and expenses of Member, committee, and leadership offices in 2011 and 2012. This resolutionexpenses of Member, committee, and leadership offices in 2011 and 2012. This resolution~~, agreed to on January 6, 2011,~~
stated that the MRA allowances for these years may not exceed 95% of the amount established for 2010.stated that the MRA allowances for these years may not exceed 95% of the amount established for 2010.  Individual MRAs Individual MRAs
were further reduced 6.4% in 2012 and 8.2% in 2013were further reduced 6.4% in 2012 and 8.2% in 2013~~, before increasing 1.0% in 2014 and remaining flat in 2015. The 2016~~
~~allowances increased by 1.0%.~~ .  In 2014, the individual MRAs increased by 1.0%.  In 2015, the individual MRAs remained flat.  In 2016, the individual MRAs increased by 1.0%.  The individual 2017 allowances initially increased by 3.9% from 2016, and then by another The individual 2017 allowances initially increased by 3.9% from 2016, and then by another
$25,000$25,000 when when the House agreed to H.Res. 411.the House agreed to H.Res. 411. ~~In 2018, individual allowances were~~  In 2018, the individual MRAs increased by $25,000. increased by $25,000.  In 2019, In 2019, ~~they~~
~~were~~the individual MRAs increased by 1.0%. increased by 1.0%.  In 2020, the individual In 2020, the individual ~~allowances were~~MRAs increased by $62,250.  In 2021, the individual MRAs increased by $65,000 ~~increased by $62,250.~~
~~Information on individual office spending is published in the quarterly Statements of Disbursements of the House (SOD),~~
~~which have been made available online since 2009. Beginning with disbursements covering January-March 2016, this~~
~~website provides SOD information in a sortable CSV (comma-separated values) format.~~
~~In addition to recurring administrative provisions in the annual appropriations acts requiring unused amounts remaining in the~~
~~MRA be used for deficit reduction or to reduce the federal debt, numerous bills and resolutions addressing the MRA have~~
~~been introduced. This legislation has generally fallen into three major categories: (1) attempts to change the MRA procedure~~
~~or regulate, authorize, or encourage the use of funds for a particular purpose; (2) stand-alone legislation that would govern the~~
~~use of unexpended balances, including language to require these funds to go toward deficit reduction; and (3) bills that would~~
~~limit or change the growth of overall MRA or adjustment among Members~~. .
This report provides a history and overview of the MRA and examines spending patterns in recent years. The data exclude This report provides a history and overview of the MRA and examines spending patterns in recent years. The data exclude
nonvoting Members, including Delegates and the Resident Commissioner, as well as Members who were not in Congress for nonvoting Members, including Delegates and the Resident Commissioner, as well as Members who were not in Congress for
the entirety of the session. Information is provided on total spending and spending for various categories, including personnel the entirety of the session. Information is provided on total spending and spending for various categories, including personnel
compensation; travel; rent, utilities, and communications; printing and reproduction; other services; supplies and materials; compensation; travel; rent, utilities, and communications; printing and reproduction; other services; supplies and materials;
equipment; and franked mail. The data collected demonstrate that, despite variations, many Members allocate their spending equipment; and franked mail. The data collected demonstrate that, despite variations, many Members allocate their spending
in a similar manner, and spending allocation patterns have remained relatively consistent over time. in a similar manner, and spending allocation patterns have remained relatively consistent over time.
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Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage

Introduction
Congressional office spending has been a regular topic of interest to academics, interest groups, Congressional office spending has been a regular topic of interest to academics, interest groups,
newspapers, and constituents for many years. It is a topic frequently mentioned in newspaper newspapers, and constituents for many years. It is a topic frequently mentioned in newspaper
articles that address individual Member spending or articles that address individual Member spending or ~~general y~~generally discuss financial accountability discuss financial accountability
among elected officials, and it has been examined by watchdog organizations and interest groups among elected officials, and it has been examined by watchdog organizations and interest groups
covering congressional spending on internal operations covering congressional spending on internal operations ~~general y~~generally. A few scholars have also . A few scholars have also
examined how Members examined how Members ~~typical y~~typically spend their office spend their office ~~al owances~~allowances, analyzing spending within , analyzing spending within
broader theories of representation.1 Individual office spending may be as varied as the districts broader theories of representation.1 Individual office spending may be as varied as the districts
Members represent. Factors affecting spending include the tenure or interests of the Member, Members represent. Factors affecting spending include the tenure or interests of the Member,
levels of casework, geography, unexpected events, and even the congressional calendar. levels of casework, geography, unexpected events, and even the congressional calendar.
While Representatives have a high degree of flexibility While Representatives have a high degree of flexibility to operate their offices in a way that to operate their offices in a way that
supports their congressional duties and responsibilities, they must operate within a number of supports their congressional duties and responsibilities, they must operate within a number of
restrictions and regulations. The Members’ Representational restrictions and regulations. The Members’ Representational ~~Al owance~~Allowance (MRA), the (MRA), the ~~al owance~~allowance
provided to Members of the House of Representatives to operate their DC and district offices,2 provided to Members of the House of Representatives to operate their DC and district offices,2
may only support Members in their official and representational duties. It may not be used for may only support Members in their official and representational duties. It may not be used for
personal or campaign purposes. Additional regulations or restrictions regarding reimbursable personal or campaign purposes. Additional regulations or restrictions regarding reimbursable
expenses may be promulgated by the Committee on House Administration, the Commission on expenses may be promulgated by the Committee on House Administration, the Commission on
Congressional MailingCongressional Mailing Standards, also known as the Franking Commission, and the Committee Standards, also known as the Franking Commission, and the Committee
on Standards of Official Conduct, and may be found in a wide variety of sources, including on Standards of Official Conduct, and may be found in a wide variety of sources, including
statute, House rules, committee resolutions, the statute, House rules, committee resolutions, the Members’ Handbook,3 the Franking Manual,4 the ,3 the Franking Manual,4 the
House Ethics Manual, “Dear Colleague” letters, and formal and informal guidance.5“Dear Colleague” letters, and formal and informal guidance.5
This report provides a history of the MRA and overview of recent developments. It also This report provides a history of the MRA and overview of recent developments. It also
demonstrates actual MRA spending patterns in recent years for demonstrates actual MRA spending patterns in recent years for al all voting Members who served voting Members who served
for a defined period.6 Spending and practices across offices and across time vary, and an for a defined period.6 Spending and practices across offices and across time vary, and an

1 Burdett Loomis and Wendy Schiller,1 Burdett Loomis and Wendy Schiller, The Contemporary Congress, 5th ed. (Belmont, CA: , 5th ed. (Belmont, CA: ~~T hompson~~Thompson-Wadsworth, -Wadsworth,
2006), Ch. 7-8; Richard F. Fenno, Jr., 2006), Ch. 7-8; Richard F. Fenno, Jr., ~~Congressm en in Com m ittees~~Congressmen in Committees (Boston: Little, Brown, 1973), p. 1; David Mayhew, (Boston: Little, Brown, 1973), p. 1; David Mayhew,
Congress: The Electoral Connection (New (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1974), p. 49; Gary W. Cox and Jonathan N. Haven: Yale University Press, 1974), p. 49; Gary W. Cox and Jonathan N.
Katz, “Why Did the Incumbency Advantage in the U.S.Katz, “Why Did the Incumbency Advantage in the U.S. House Elections Grow?”House Elections Grow?” American Journal of Political
Science, vol. 40, no. 2 (May 1996), pp. 479-481; and, David C.W. Parker and Craig, vol. 40, no. 2 (May 1996), pp. 479-481; and, David C.W. Parker and Craig Goodman, “Goodman, “ Making a Good Making a Good
Impression: ResourceImpression: Resource Allocation, Home Styles, and Washington Work,” Allocation, Home Styles, and Washington Work,” Legislative Studies Quarterly, vol. 34, no. 4 , vol. 34, no. 4
(November 2009), pp. 493-524. One study of MRA expenditures during(November 2009), pp. 493-524. One study of MRA expenditures during ~~the 106 th~~ the 106th Congress, for example, examined the Congress, for example, examined the
effect of a Member’s standing within the House, time in office, and plans for retirement or reelection on spending effect of a Member’s standing within the House, time in office, and plans for retirement or reelection on spending
(Garry Young, “Choosing How(Garry Young, “Choosing How to Represent: House Members and the Distribution of to Represent: House Members and the Distribution of ~~T heir~~Their Representational Representational
Allowances,”Allowances,” updated version of a paper presented at the Midwest Political Scienceupdated version of a paper presented at the Midwest Political Science Association, Chicago, April 7, Association, Chicago, April 7,
2005, pp. 15-18, available at http://home.gwu.edu/~youngg/research/Homestyle%20Choices%20v3.02.pdf). 2005, pp. 15-18, available at http://home.gwu.edu/~youngg/research/Homestyle%20Choices%20v3.02.pdf).
2 For additional information on the resources available to Members of Congress,2 For additional information on the resources available to Members of Congress, see CRSsee CRS Report RL30064, Report RL30064,
Congressional Salaries and Allowances: In Brief,, by Ida A. Brudnick. by Ida A. Brudnick.
3 Available at https://cha.house.gov/. 3 Available at https://cha.house.gov/.
4 Available at https://cha.house.gov/. 4 Available at https://cha.house.gov/.
5 Available at https://ethics.house.gov/sites/ethics.house.gov/files/documents/2008_House_Ethics_Manual.pdf. 5 Available at https://ethics.house.gov/sites/ethics.house.gov/files/documents/2008_House_Ethics_Manual.pdf.
6 Information on spending by certain Members was6 Information on spending by certain Members was ~~excluded~~ excluded from the observation data and summary findingsfrom the observation data and summary findings because because
of characteristics related to the district or of characteristics related to the district or ~~stat us~~status or tenure of the Member. Nonvoting Members, including or tenure of the Member. Nonvoting Members, including the Delegates the Delegates
and the Resident Commissioner, have been subjectand the Resident Commissioner, have been subject to the same expense formula asto the same expense formula as other Members since January 1, other Members since January 1,
1983 (P.L. 97-357, 96 Stat 1711, October 19, 1982), although the distance from D.C., size of population, or both, may 1983 (P.L. 97-357, 96 Stat 1711, October 19, 1982), although the distance from D.C., size of population, or both, may
vary greatly from other Members. Members who werevary greatly from other Members. Members who were not in Congress for all of a calendar year, whether the Member not in Congress for all of a calendar year, whether the Member
left Congress prior to the end of the year or entered any time after the beginning of the session, wereleft Congress prior to the end of the year or entered any time after the beginning of the session, were ~~excluded~~ excluded from the from the
calculations from that year since spending for any portion may not be reflective of calculations from that year since spending for any portion may not be reflective of ~~allocati ons~~allocations for an uninterrupted year. for an uninterrupted year.
~~T his~~This limitation resulted in the following number limitation resulted in the following number of Members includedof Members included in the data: for 2009, 429; 2010, 428; 2011, 430; in the data: for 2009, 429; 2010, 428; 2011, 430;
2012, 426; 2013, 428; 2014, 430; 2015, 431; 2016, 431; 2017, 426; 2018, 424; and 2019, 428. 2012, 426; 2013, 428; 2014, 430; 2015, 431; 2016, 431; 2017, 426; 2018, 424; and 2019, 428.
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examination of additional examination of additional Congresses would be required for a more complete picture of Congresses would be required for a more complete picture of
congressional office spending patterns. congressional office spending patterns.
~~Most~~ Recent Actions: Expenses Related to the Coronavirus
Pandemic
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act, P.L. 116-136, enacted The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act, P.L. 116-136, enacted
March 27, 2020) provided additional funding to March 27, 2020) provided additional funding to ~~al ow~~allow legislative branch entities “to prevent, legislative branch entities “to prevent,
prepare for, and respond to coronavirus, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus, ~~domestical y or international y~~domestically or internationally.” Funding included $25.0 .” Funding included $25.0
~~mil ion~~ million for the “House of Representatives, Salaries and Expenses.” This account funds for the “House of Representatives, Salaries and Expenses.” This account funds al
all activities of the House, but it does not fund salaries of Members of Congress. activities of the House, but it does not fund salaries of Members of Congress.
Although individual Although individual MRA levels were not adjusted, Member offices were provided with MRA levels were not adjusted, Member offices were provided with
additional flexibilitiesadditional flexibilities due to the coronavirus pandemic. On March 16, 2020, the Committee on due to the coronavirus pandemic. On March 16, 2020, the Committee on
House AdministrationHouse Administration (CHA) issued a “Dear Colleague” letter stating that, while ordinary (CHA) issued a “Dear Colleague” letter stating that, while ordinary
commuting expenses are not reimbursable, staff experiencing “unique commuting expenses commuting expenses are not reimbursable, staff experiencing “unique commuting expenses
associated with the coronavirus” could seek reimbursement.7 CHA also “authorized Member and associated with the coronavirus” could seek reimbursement.7 CHA also “authorized Member and
Committee Offices to use their remaining LY19 funds towards unanticipated expenses for Committee Offices to use their remaining LY19 funds towards unanticipated expenses for
teleworking equipment, teleworking equipment, ~~teletownhal s~~teletownhalls, and supplies. Acceptable purchases include desktop , and supplies. Acceptable purchases include desktop
computers, laptops, tablets, docking stations, monitors, keyboards, mice, printers, multi-function computers, laptops, tablets, docking stations, monitors, keyboards, mice, printers, multi-function
printers (scanner/fax/copier/printer), toner, and printers (scanner/fax/copier/printer), toner, and ~~cel~~ cell phones for continuity of operations phones for continuity of operations
(COOP).”8 Offices could also use available(COOP).”8 Offices could also use available ~~legislative~~ legislative year 2020 funds. CHA also adopted new year 2020 funds. CHA also adopted new
regulations governing House paid interns due to the circumstances of the pandemic, including regulations governing House paid interns due to the circumstances of the pandemic, including
~~al owing~~allowing funds to be used for interns in district offices, funds to be used for interns in district offices, ~~al owing~~allowing paid interns to telework, and paid interns to telework, and
~~al owing~~allowing House offices to issue paid interns House equipment such as laptops or phones.9 Face House offices to issue paid interns House equipment such as laptops or phones.9 Face
masks purchased for official business were also deemed reimbursable.10 Additional telework masks purchased for official business were also deemed reimbursable.10 Additional telework
support, including technical assistance and training and continuity of operations (COOP) support, including technical assistance and training and continuity of operations (COOP)
planning, was also provided by the House Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and the House planning, was also provided by the House Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and the House
Sergeant at Arms. In addition, the CAO “purchased several hundred plexiglass barriers of various Sergeant at Arms. In addition, the CAO “purchased several hundred plexiglass barriers of various
typestypes ~~that wil be offered to D.C. offices at no cost~~,” and the purchase of additional barriers by ,” and the purchase of additional barriers by
House offices House offices iswould be considered a reimbursable expense.11 considered a reimbursable expense.11
Establishment of the MRA
The MRA, which was first authorized in 1996, was preceded by multiple The MRA, which was first authorized in 1996, was preceded by multiple ~~al owances~~allowances for each for each
Member covering different categories of spending—including the former clerk hire Member covering different categories of spending—including the former clerk hire ~~al owance~~allowance, ,
official expenses official expenses ~~al owance~~allowance, and official mail , and official mail ~~al owance~~allowance. The establishment of the MRA followed . The establishment of the MRA followed

7 Dear Colleague7 Dear Colleague letter from the Committee on House Administration, “Update about the coronavirus: commuting letter from the Committee on House Administration, “Update about the coronavirus: commuting
expenses,” March 16, 2020. See also Dear Colleagueexpenses,” March 16, 2020. See also Dear Colleague letters of March 6 and March 11, 2020, and joint guidanceletters of March 6 and March 11, 2020, and joint guidance from from
the Committee on House Administration and the Committee on Ethics issued on March 15, 2020. the Committee on House Administration and the Committee on Ethics issued on March 15, 2020.
8 “Use of LY19 Funds 8 “Use of LY19 Funds for Continuity of Operations Supplies,” March 24, 2020, available to House offices on for Continuity of Operations Supplies,” March 24, 2020, available to House offices on
HouseNet. HouseNet.
9 Dear Colleague9 Dear Colleague letter from the Committee on House Administration, “Updated House Paid Internship Program letter from the Committee on House Administration, “Updated House Paid Internship Program
RegulationsRegulations and Intern and Intern ~~T elework~~Telework Policy,” May 6, 2020, and https://cha.house.gov/member-services/house-paid- Policy,” May 6, 2020, and https://cha.house.gov/member-services/house-paid-
internship-program. internship-program.
10 Dear Colleague 10 Dear Colleague letter from the Chief Administrative Officer, “Availability of Hand Sanitizer and Face Coverings for letter from the Chief Administrative Officer, “Availability of Hand Sanitizer and Face Coverings for
Member and Committee Offices,” April 21, 2020. Member and Committee Offices,” April 21, 2020.
11 Dear Colleague11 Dear Colleague letter from the Chief Administrative Officer and the Attending Physician, “Guidelines for Modified letter from the Chief Administrative Officer and the Attending Physician, “Guidelines for Modified
Office Occupancy,” June 15, 2020. Office Occupancy,” June 15, 2020.
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efforts by the House, dating back to the late 1970s, to move to a system of increased flexibility efforts by the House, dating back to the late 1970s, to move to a system of increased flexibility
and accountability for Member office operations.12 and accountability for Member office operations.12
In September 1995, the Committee on House Administration authorized the consolidation of In September 1995, the Committee on House Administration authorized the consolidation of
these these ~~al owances~~allowances.13 Subsequently, in November 1995, the FY1996 Legislative Branch .13 Subsequently, in November 1995, the FY1996 Legislative Branch
Appropriations Act combined the separate appropriations for personal office staff, official office Appropriations Act combined the separate appropriations for personal office staff, official office
expenses, and mail costs into a single new appropriations heading, “Members’ Representational expenses, and mail costs into a single new appropriations heading, “Members’ Representational
~~Al owances~~Allowances.”14 According to the House Appropriations Committee report on the FY1996 .”14 According to the House Appropriations Committee report on the FY1996 ~~bil~~ bill, the , the
consolidation was adopted to simplify Members’ accounting practices and consolidation was adopted to simplify Members’ accounting practices and ~~al owed~~allowed Members to Members to
more easily show savings achieved when they did not spend more easily show savings achieved when they did not spend al all of their of their ~~al owance~~allowance.15 Subsequent .15 Subsequent
legislationlegislation in 1996 further defined the MRA and made it subject to regulations and adjustments in 1996 further defined the MRA and made it subject to regulations and adjustments
adopted by the Committee on House Administration.16 Additionaladopted by the Committee on House Administration.16 Additional provisions included in the provisions included in the
FY2000 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act amended language regarding official mail and FY2000 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act amended language regarding official mail and
repealed obsolete language and terms.17 repealed obsolete language and terms.17
Subsequent MRA Legislation
Appropriations Acts: Administrative Provisions Related to
Unexpended Balances and Deficit Reduction
Since the MRA’s establishment, appropriations acts funding the legislative branch have Since the MRA’s establishment, appropriations acts funding the legislative branch have
contained—or continued, in the case of a continuing resolution—a provision requiring unused contained—or continued, in the case of a continuing resolution—a provision requiring unused
amounts remaining in the MRA be used for deficit reduction or to reduce the federal debt.18amounts remaining in the MRA be used for deficit reduction or to reduce the federal debt.18
This provision was included in legislative This provision was included in legislative branch appropriations branch appropriations ~~bil s~~bills reported by the House reported by the House
Appropriations Committee in FY1999 and since FY2002. In some years prior to consideration of Appropriations Committee in FY1999 and since FY2002. In some years prior to consideration of
FY2002 funding, it was added by amendment, including FY2002 funding, it was added by amendment, including
 H.Amdt. 458 (403-21, Roll no. 415) to H.R. 1854, 104th Congress (Legislative  H.Amdt. 458 (403-21, Roll no. 415) to H.R. 1854, 104th Congress (Legislative
Branch Appropriations Act, 1996); Branch Appropriations Act, 1996);

~~12 See,~~ 12 See, for example, House Administration Committee Orders 35, 38, 39, and 40 (effective May 1, 1983; August 1, for example, House Administration Committee Orders 35, 38, 39, and 40 (effective May 1, 1983; August 1,
1985; March 15, 1990; and May 8, 1991, respectively). These were reprinted within the notes for 2 U.S.C. 571985; March 15, 1990; and May 8, 1991, respectively). These were reprinted within the notes for 2 U.S.C. 57 in prior in prior
versions of the versions of the U.S. Code. .
13 Committee Order No. 41, effective September 1, 1995. 13 Committee Order No. 41, effective September 1, 1995.
14 P.L. 104-53, 109 Stat. 519 (November 19, 1995). 14 P.L. 104-53, 109 Stat. 519 (November 19, 1995).
15 U.S.15 U.S. Congress, HouseCongress, House Committee on Appropriations, Committee on Appropriations, Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, 1996, report to , report to
accompany H.R. 1854, 104th Cong., 1st sess.,accompany H.R. 1854, 104th Cong., 1st sess., H.Rept. 104-141H.Rept. 104-141 ~~(Washington: GPO, 1995)~~, p. 10. , p. 10.
16 P.L. 104-186, 110 Stat. 1719 (August 20, 1996); 2 U.S.C. 5341. 16 P.L. 104-186, 110 Stat. 1719 (August 20, 1996); 2 U.S.C. 5341.
17 P.L. 106-57, 113 Stat. 415 (September 29, 1999). 17 P.L. 106-57, 113 Stat. 415 (September 29, 1999).
18 18 ~~T he~~The first few laws first few laws with this provision referred to the federal deficit. A budgetwith this provision referred to the federal deficit. A budget deficit (or surplus)deficit (or surplus) is calculatedis calculated based based
on total spending of the entire federal governmenton total spending of the entire federal government less total revenue collected. Since P.L. 106-57 (September 29, 1999), less total revenue collected. Since P.L. 106-57 (September 29, 1999),
these provisions have also referred to the debt, stating any amounts remaining after all payments are made “these provisions have also referred to the debt, stating any amounts remaining after all payments are made “ shall be shall be
deposited in the deposited in the ~~T reasury~~Treasury and used and used for deficit reduction (or, if there is no Federalfor deficit reduction (or, if there is no Federal ~~budget~~ budget deficit after all suchdeficit after all such payments payments
have been made, for reducinghave been made, for reducing the Federal debt, in such manner as the Secretary of the the Federal debt, in such manner as the Secretary of the ~~T reasury~~Treasury considers appropriate).” considers appropriate).”
Annual legislative branch appropriations bills with this languageAnnual legislative branch appropriations bills with this language ~~include~~ include P.L. 104-53, P.L. 104-197, P.L. 105-55, P.L. P.L. 104-53, P.L. 104-197, P.L. 105-55, P.L.
105-275, P.L. 106-57, P.L. 106-554, P.L. 107-68, P.L. 108-7, P.L. 108-83, P.L. 108-447, P.L. 109-55, P.L. 110-161, 105-275, P.L. 106-57, P.L. 106-554, P.L. 107-68, P.L. 108-7, P.L. 108-83, P.L. 108-447, P.L. 109-55, P.L. 110-161,
P.L. 111-8, P.L. 111-68, P.L. 112-74, P.L. 113-6, P.L. 113-76, P.L. 113-235, P.L. 114-113, P.L. 115-31, P.L. 115-141, P.L. 111-8, P.L. 111-68, P.L. 112-74, P.L. 113-6, P.L. 113-76, P.L. 113-235, P.L. 114-113, P.L. 115-31, P.L. 115-141,
P.L. 115-244, P.L. 115-244, ~~and~~ P.L. 116-94P.L. 116-94~~. T he~~, P.L. 116-260, and P.L. 117-103. The two long-term continuing resolutions (also known as CRs) two long-term continuing resolutions (also known as CRs) enacted duringenacted during this this
period—P.L. 110-5 and P.L. 112-10—continued this languageperiod—P.L. 110-5 and P.L. 112-10—continued this language from prior years. ~~from prior years. T he FY2021 House-reported~~
~~legislative branch appropriations bill (H.R. 7611) also continues this language.~~
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link to page 25 link to page 25 Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage

 H.Amdt. 1245 (voice vote) to H.R. 3754, 104th Congress (Legislative Branch  H.Amdt. 1245 (voice vote) to H.R. 3754, 104th Congress (Legislative Branch
Appropriations Act, 1997); Appropriations Act, 1997);
 H.Amdt. 287 (voice vote) to H.R. 2209, 105th Congress (Legislative Branch  H.Amdt. 287 (voice vote) to H.R. 2209, 105th Congress (Legislative Branch
Appropriations Act, 1998); Appropriations Act, 1998);
 H.Amdt. 166 (voice vote) to H.R. 1905, 106th Congress (Legislative Branch  H.Amdt. 166 (voice vote) to H.R. 1905, 106th Congress (Legislative Branch
Appropriations Act, 2000); and, Appropriations Act, 2000); and,
 H.Amdt. 865 (voice vote) to H.R. 4516, 106th Congress (Legislative Branch  H.Amdt. 865 (voice vote) to H.R. 4516, 106th Congress (Legislative Branch
Appropriations Act, 2001). Appropriations Act, 2001).
Other MRA Legislation Introduced
In addition to the appropriations language, numerous In addition to the appropriations language, numerous ~~bil s~~bills and resolutions addressing the MRA and resolutions addressing the MRA
have been introduced (for examples, see tables in have been introduced (for examples, see tables in thethe Appendix). This legislation has . This legislation has ~~general y~~
~~fal en~~generally fallen into three major categories: into three major categories:
 Attempts to change the MRA procedure or regulate, prohibit, authorize, disclose,  Attempts to change the MRA procedure or regulate, prohibit, authorize, disclose,
or encourage the use of funds for a particular purpose. or encourage the use of funds for a particular purpose.
 Stand-alone legislation  Stand-alone legislation that would govern the use of unexpended balances, that would govern the use of unexpended balances,
including language to require these funds to go toward deficit reduction. including language to require these funds to go toward deficit reduction.
  ~~Bil s~~ Bills or resolutions that would limit or change the growth of or resolutions that would limit or change the growth of ~~overal~~ overall MRA or MRA or
adjustment among Members. adjustment among Members.
MRA-related amendments have also been offered to the legislative branch appropriations MRA-related amendments have also been offered to the legislative branch appropriations ~~bil s.~~
bills. These include These include
 H.Amdt. 213, which was offered to H.R. 3219, the FY2018 legislative branch  H.Amdt. 213, which was offered to H.R. 3219, the FY2018 legislative branch
appropriations appropriations ~~bil~~ bill, increasing funding for the Government Accountability Office, , increasing funding for the Government Accountability Office,
offset by a reduction in the Members’ Representational offset by a reduction in the Members’ Representational ~~Al owance~~Allowance, which failed , which failed
by voice vote. by voice vote.
 H.Amdt. 214, which was offered to H.R. 3219, the FY2018 legislative branch  H.Amdt. 214, which was offered to H.R. 3219, the FY2018 legislative branch
appropriations bill, relating to the use of the Members’ Representational appropriations bill, relating to the use of the Members’ Representational
~~Al owance~~Allowance for Member security, was agreed to by voice vote. for Member security, was agreed to by voice vote.
 H.Amdt. 642, which was offered to H.R. 4487, the FY2015 Legislative Branch  H.Amdt. 642, which was offered to H.R. 4487, the FY2015 Legislative Branch
Appropriations Act, on May 1, 2014. This amendment, which would have Appropriations Act, on May 1, 2014. This amendment, which would have
prohibited the use of the MRA for leased vehicles, excluding mobile district prohibited the use of the MRA for leased vehicles, excluding mobile district
offices and short-term vehicle rentals, was not agreed to by a recorded vote (Roll offices and short-term vehicle rentals, was not agreed to by a recorded vote (Roll
no. 188).no. 188).
 H.Amdt. 1284, which was offered to H.R. 5882, the FY2013 Legislative Branch  H.Amdt. 1284, which was offered to H.R. 5882, the FY2013 Legislative Branch
Appropriations Act, on June 8, 2012. This amendment, which would have Appropriations Act, on June 8, 2012. This amendment, which would have
prohibited paid advertisements on any internet site other than an official site of prohibited paid advertisements on any internet site other than an official site of
the Member, leadership office, or committee involved, was not agreed to by a the Member, leadership office, or committee involved, was not agreed to by a
recorded vote (Roll no. 375). recorded vote (Roll no. 375).
 H.Amdt. 708, which was offered to H.R. 2551, the FY2012 Legislative Branch  H.Amdt. 708, which was offered to H.R. 2551, the FY2012 Legislative Branch
Appropriations Act, on July 21, 2011. The amendment, which prohibited the use Appropriations Act, on July 21, 2011. The amendment, which prohibited the use
of funds to make any payments from any MRA for the leasing of a vehicle in an of funds to make any payments from any MRA for the leasing of a vehicle in an
amount that exceeds $1,000 in any month, was agreed to by voice vote. This amount that exceeds $1,000 in any month, was agreed to by voice vote. This
language was included in P.L. 112-74 and subsequent legislative branch language was included in P.L. 112-74 and subsequent legislative branch
appropriations acts. H.Amdt. 709 and H.Amdt. 710, which also proposed appropriations acts. H.Amdt. 709 and H.Amdt. 710, which also proposed
restrictions on the MRA, failed by voice vote. restrictions on the MRA, failed by voice vote.
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Appropriations and Allocations: Timing Differences
with the Overall Fiscal Year Appropriation and
Individual Member Calendar Year Authorization
Funding is provided on a fiscal year (beginning October 1) basis and a single total amount for Funding is provided on a fiscal year (beginning October 1) basis and a single total amount for al
all Members is provided under the appropriations heading, “Members’ Representational Members is provided under the appropriations heading, “Members’ Representational
~~Al owances~~Allowances,” within the House account “Salaries and Expenses” contained in the annual ,” within the House account “Salaries and Expenses” contained in the annual
~~legislative~~ legislative branch appropriations branch appropriations ~~bil s.~~
~~Al owance~~bills. Allowance or authorization levels for individual or authorization levels for individual Members of the House are authorized in statute Members of the House are authorized in statute
and are regulated and adjusted by the Committee on House Administration pursuant to 2 U.S.C. and are regulated and adjusted by the Committee on House Administration pursuant to 2 U.S.C.
4313 et seq.4313 et seq. and House Rule X(1)(j). The individual MRAs for the 441 Members, Delegates, and and House Rule X(1)(j). The individual MRAs for the 441 Members, Delegates, and
the Resident Commissioner are authorized for periods that correspond closely to the sessions of the Resident Commissioner are authorized for periods that correspond closely to the sessions of
Congress—from January 3 of each year through January 2 of the following year. Congress—from January 3 of each year through January 2 of the following year.
In addition to the complexity involved in different time frames and split responsibilities—with In addition to the complexity involved in different time frames and split responsibilities—with
the appropriation on a fiscal year determined by the Committee on Appropriations, and the the appropriation on a fiscal year determined by the Committee on Appropriations, and the
authorization roughly following the calendar year as authorization roughly following the calendar year as ~~al ocated~~allocated by the Committee on House by the Committee on House
Administration—the House has indicated that the total authorized level for Administration—the House has indicated that the total authorized level for al all MRAs may be MRAs may be
more than the total appropriation due to projections on spend-out rates.more than the total appropriation due to projections on spend-out rates.
~~Most recently, for~~ For example, the House Appropriations Committee report accompanying the example, the House Appropriations Committee report accompanying the
FY2020 legislative branch appropriations FY2020 legislative branch appropriations ~~bil~~ bill stated that, of the amount recommended, “Almost stated that, of the amount recommended, “Almost
half of the increase is needed just to bring the appropriation more in line with currently authorized half of the increase is needed just to bring the appropriation more in line with currently authorized
spending.”19 spending.”19
A discussion of the use of prior spending patterns in the determination of MRA appropriations A discussion of the use of prior spending patterns in the determination of MRA appropriations
levels was included in numerous House reports, particularly in the first few years of the MRA.20 levels was included in numerous House reports, particularly in the first few years of the MRA.20
For example, the FY1997 report accompanying the legislative branch appropriations For example, the FY1997 report accompanying the legislative branch appropriations ~~bil~~ bill stated,stated,
Many Members do not expend their full allowance. That is why the Committee bill does Many Members do not expend their full allowance. That is why the Committee bill does
not fully fund this account. The frugality of those Members is already projected in the not fully fund this account. The frugality of those Members is already projected in the ~~bil~~
bill presented by the Committee. Since these prospective savings are already taken in the bill, presented by the Committee. Since these prospective savings are already taken in the bill,
theythey ~~reduce the need for appropriated funds and, therefore, contribute directly to~~ reduce the need for appropriated funds and, therefore, contribute directly to the the
reduction in federal spendingreduction in federal spending and consequently lowerand consequently lower the projected deficit.the projected deficit. If the If the
Committee bill were to fully fund the Members’ Representational Allowance, the amount Committee bill were to fully fund the Members’ Representational Allowance, the amount

~~19 U.S. Congress, House~~ appropriated would have to be increased by $27 million. Thus, the account is underfunded by almost 7%.21 19 U.S. Congress, House Committee on Appropriations, Committee on Appropriations, Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, 2020, H.Rept. 116-64, , H.Rept. 116-64,
report to accompany H.R. 2779report to accompany H.R. 2779 ~~(Washington, GPO: 2019)~~, p. 2. p. 2.
20 U.S.20 U.S. Congress, HouseCongress, House Committee on Appropriations, Committee on Appropriations, Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, 1996, H.Rept. 104-, H.Rept. 104-
141, report to accompany H.R. 1854141, report to accompany H.R. 1854 ~~(Washington, GPO: 1995)~~, p. 12; U.S. Congress, House p. 12; U.S. Congress, House Committee on Committee on
Appropriations, Appropriations, Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, 1998 , H.Rept. 105-196, report to accompany H.R. 2209, H.Rept. 105-196, report to accompany H.R. 2209
~~(Washington, GPO: 1997)~~, p. 10; U.S. Congress, p. 10; U.S. Congress, ~~House~~ House Committee on Appropriations, Committee on Appropriations, Legislative Branch
Appropriations Bill, 1999, H.Rept. 105-595, report to accompany H.R. 4112, H.Rept. 105-595, report to accompany H.R. 4112 ~~(Washington, GPO: 1998)~~, p. 10; p. 10; U.S. U.S.
Congress, HouseCongress, House Committee on Committee on ~~Appropriation s~~Appropriations, , Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, 2000 , H.Rept. 106-156, report , H.Rept. 106-156, report
to accompany H.R. 1905to accompany H.R. 1905 ~~(Washington, GPO: 1999)~~, p. 11; U.S. Congress, p. 11; U.S. Congress, ~~House~~ House Committee on Appropriations, Committee on Appropriations,
Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, 2001 , H.Rept. 106-635, report to accompany H.R. 4516, H.Rept. 106-635, report to accompany H.R. 4516 ~~(Washington, GPO:~~
~~2000)~~, p. 11; U.S. Congress, p. 11; U.S. Congress, House Committee on Appropriations, House Committee on Appropriations, Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, 2010, ,
H.Rept. 111-160, report to accompany H.R. 2918H.Rept. 111-160, report to accompany H.R. 2918 ~~(Washington, GPO: 2009) p. 8.~~
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~~appropriated would have to be increased by $27 million. Thus, the account is underfunded~~
~~by almost 7%.21~~, p. 8. 21 U.S. Congress, House Committee on Appropriations, Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, 1997, H.Rept. 104-657, report to accompany H.R. 3754, p. 11. Congressional Research Service 5 Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage
This difference was also discussed during a hearing on the FY2009 legislative This difference was also discussed during a hearing on the FY2009 legislative branch branch
appropriations requests.22appropriations requests.22
Pursuant to law, late-arriving Pursuant to law, late-arriving ~~bil s~~bills may be paid for up to two years following the end of the MRA may be paid for up to two years following the end of the MRA
year.23 The permissibility of payment for late-arriving year.23 The permissibility of payment for late-arriving ~~bil s~~bills does not provide flexibility does not provide flexibility in the in the
timing of the obligation, a point emphasized in the timing of the obligation, a point emphasized in the Members’ Congressional Handbook, which , which
states: “states: “al all expenses incurred expenses incurred ~~wil~~ will be charged to the be charged to the ~~al owance~~allowance available on the date the services available on the date the services
were provided or the expenses were incurred” and the “MRA is not transferable between years.”24were provided or the expenses were incurred” and the “MRA is not transferable between years.”24
Fiscal Year Appropriations: Funding History
The MRA is funded in the House “Salaries and Expenses” account in the annual legislative The MRA is funded in the House “Salaries and Expenses” account in the annual legislative
branch appropriations branch appropriations ~~bil s~~bills. One single line-item provides funding for . One single line-item provides funding for al all Members’ MRAs.Members’ MRAs.
~~The~~ Prior to the enactment of FY2022 funding, the MRA funding level peaked at $660.0 MRA funding level peaked at $660.0 ~~mil ion~~million in FY2010. It was subsequently reduced to in FY2010. It was subsequently reduced to
$613.1 $613.1 ~~mil ion~~million in FY2011 (-7.1%), and then to $573.9 in FY2011 (-7.1%), and then to $573.9 ~~mil ion~~million in FY2012 (-6.4%). The FY2012 in FY2012 (-6.4%). The FY2012
funding level was continued in the FY2013 continuing resolution (P.L. 113-6), not including funding level was continued in the FY2013 continuing resolution (P.L. 113-6), not including
~~sequestration or~~a 5.2% sequestration (i.e., an across-the-board rescission an across-the-board rescission ~~(-5.2%~~of nonexempt spending). The FY2014 level of $554.3 ). The FY2014 level of $554.3 ~~mil ion~~million was ~~was~~
continued in the FY2015 act (P.L. 113-235) and the FY2016 act (P.L. 114-113).continued in the FY2015 act (P.L. 113-235) and the FY2016 act (P.L. 114-113).
At an April 20, 2016, markup of the FY2017 At an April 20, 2016, markup of the FY2017 ~~bil~~ bill, the House Appropriations Committee , the House Appropriations Committee
LegislativeLegislative Branch Subcommittee recommended a continuation of this level. At the May 17, Branch Subcommittee recommended a continuation of this level. At the May 17,
2016, full committee markup, an amendment offered by Representative Farr to increase this level 2016, full committee markup, an amendment offered by Representative Farr to increase this level
by $8.3 by $8.3 ~~mil ion~~million, to $562.6 , to $562.6 ~~mil ion~~ million (+1.5%), was agreed to. This level was included in the House-(+1.5%), was agreed to. This level was included in the House-
passed FY2017 passed FY2017 ~~bil~~ bill (H.R. 5325). H.R. 5325 was not enacted, however, this increase was provided (H.R. 5325). H.R. 5325 was not enacted, however, this increase was provided
in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2017 (P.L. 115-31), which was enacted on May 5, 2017. in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2017 (P.L. 115-31), which was enacted on May 5, 2017.

~~21 U.S. Congress, House Committee on Appropriations, Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill, 1997, H.Rept. 104-~~
~~657, report to accompany H.R. 3754 (Washington, GPO: 1996) p. 11.~~
The FY2017 level was continued for FY2018. The FY2019 level of $573.6 million represented an increase of $10.998 million (+2.0%). The FY2020 law (P.L. 116-94) provided $615.0 million, an increase of $41.4 million (+7.2%). The FY2021 law (P.L. 116-260) provided $640.0 million (+4.1%). The FY2022 law (P.L. 117-103) provides $774.4 million (+21.0%). 22 At this hearing, Chief Administrative Officer Dan Beard22 At this hearing, Chief Administrative Officer Dan Beard indicated that the appropriation “is usually 92 or 93 percent indicated that the appropriation “is usually 92 or 93 percent
of the authorization.” U.S. Congress, Houseof the authorization.” U.S. Congress, House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch, Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch,
Legislative Branch Appropriations for 2009, hearings, 110th Cong., 2nd sess., April 9, 2008, hearings, 110th Cong., 2nd sess., April 9, 2008, ~~(Washington: GPO, 2008),~~
pp. 518-519, 528-529. pp. 518-519, 528-529.
23 23 ~~T he~~The two-year period for late receipts for Congress is shorter relative to annual appropriations for much of the rest of two-year period for late receipts for Congress is shorter relative to annual appropriations for much of the rest of
the federal government, which is subject to a five-year period (31 U.S.C.the federal government, which is subject to a five-year period (31 U.S.C. §1551 et al1551 et al.). ). ~~T his~~This is discussed is discussed in the in the
Principles of Federal Appropriations Law. ~~T his~~This publication states: “ publication states: “ For appropriations of the House and Senate, For appropriations of the House and Senate,
unobligatedunobligated balances more than two years old cannot be usedbalances more than two years old cannot be used short of an act of Congress. Instead, obligations short of an act of Congress. Instead, obligations
chargeablechargeable to appropriations that have been expired for more than 2 years ‘shall be liquidatedto appropriations that have been expired for more than 2 years ‘shall be liquidated from any appropriations from any appropriations
for the same general purpose, which, at the time of payment, are available for disbursement.’ 2 U.S.C.for the same general purpose, which, at the time of payment, are available for disbursement.’ 2 U.S.C. §102a.” United §102a.” United
States General Accounting Office, States General Accounting Office, Principles of Federal Appropriations Law, , ~~T hird~~Third Edition, vol. I, January 2004, Edition, vol. I, January 2004,
http://www.gao.gov/special.pubs/3rdEditionVol1.pdf,http://www.gao.gov/special.pubs/3rdEditionVol1.pdf, pp. 5-76 – 5-77. Chapter 5 (“pp. 5-76 – 5-77. Chapter 5 (“ Availability of Appropriations: Availability of Appropriations:
~~T ime~~Time”)”) also has a section on the “also has a section on the “ Evolution of the Law” related to the treatment of unexpended balances. Another Evolution of the Law” related to the treatment of unexpended balances. Another
section in this chapter, on “Closed Appropriation Accounts” contains the following footnote on section in this chapter, on “Closed Appropriation Accounts” contains the following footnote on ~~T reasury~~Treasury operations operations
and the treatment of closed appropriations: “We commonly talk about “returning” appropriation balances to the and the treatment of closed appropriations: “We commonly talk about “returning” appropriation balances to the
~~T reasury~~Treasury. In point of fact, for the most part, they never leave the . In point of fact, for the most part, they never leave the ~~T reasury to be gin~~Treasury to begin with. An appropriation does not with. An appropriation does not
represent cash actually set aside in the represent cash actually set aside in the ~~T reasury~~Treasury. Government obligations are liquidated. Government obligations are liquidated as as needed through revenues needed through revenues
and borrowing.and borrowing. ~~T hus~~ Thus, the reversion of funds to the , the reversion of funds to the ~~T reasury~~Treasury is not a movement of actual cash, but a is not a movement of actual cash, but a ~~book keeping~~bookkeeping
adjustment that in the various waysadjustment that in the various ways ~~discussed~~ discussed in the text, affects the government’s legal authority to incur obligations in the text, affects the government’s legal authority to incur obligations
and make expenditures.” and make expenditures.”
24 24 ~~T he~~The Members’ Handbook~~. Available~~, available at https://cha.house.gov/. at https://cha.house.gov/.
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~~The FY2017 level was continued for FY2018. The FY2019 level of $573.6 mil ion represents an~~
~~increase of $10.998 mil ion (+2.0%). This funding is separate from an al owance for interns in~~
~~Member offices that was first funded in FY2019 ($8.8 mil ion for up to $20,000 per office).~~
~~The FY2020 law (P.L. 116-94) provides $615.0 mil ion, an increase of $41.4 mil ion (+7.2%). A~~
~~separate account contains $11.0 mil ion for interns in House Member offices.~~
~~Table 1~~ ~~provides the appropriation for the overal~~ Table 1 provides the appropriation for the overall MRA account for MRA account for al all Members from FY1996 Members from FY1996
through through ~~FY2020~~FY2022. Figure 1 shows the same information in current and constant ( shows the same information in current and constant (~~2020) dollars.~~
~~The FY2020 enacted funding level is~~
~~ a decrease of approximately 6.8% from the peak funding provided in FY2010,~~
~~not adjusted for inflation (21.2% below when adjusted for inflation); and~~
~~ approximately 3.8% above the funding level provided when the account was~~
~~established in FY1996, when adjusted for inflation (an increase of approximately~~
~~70.6% in nominal dollars).25~~
~~Table 1. MRA Appropriations: FY1996-FY2020~~
~~(in thousands of current dol ars~~2022) dollars. These show that the FY2021 enacted level remained below the FY2010 level in current (non-inflation adjusted) dollars. While the FY2022 enacted level represented the first appropriation to exceed the FY2010 level in current dollars, it remains below the FY2010 level in constant (inflation adjusted) dollars by approximately 6%. Table 1. MRA Appropriations: FY1996-FY2022 (in thousands of current dollars) )
Fiscal
Year
$
Fiscal Year
$
Fiscal Year
$
Fiscal Year
$
1996
360,503 360,503
2003
476,536 476,536
2010
660,000 660,000
2017
562,632 562,632
1997
363,313 363,313
2004
514,454 514,454
2011
613,052 613,052
2018
562,632 562,632
1998
379,789 379,789
2005
538,655 538,655
2012
573,939 573,939
2019
573,630 573,630
1999
385,279 385,279
2006
534,109 534,109
2013
543,919 543,919
2020
615,000 615,000
2000
406,279 406,279
2007
554,716 554,716
2014
554,318 554,318
2021 640,000

2001
420,182 420,182
2008
579,548 579,548
2015
554,318 554,318
2022 774,400

2002
475,422 475,422
2009
609,000 609,000
2016
554,318 554,318

Source: Annual and supplemental appropriations conference reports,Annual and supplemental appropriations conference reports, acts, and committeeacts, and committee prints.prints.
~~The House-reported FY2021 legislative branch appropriations bil (H.R. 7611) recommends~~
~~$640.0 mil ion (+4.1%).~~
~~Figure 1~~ ~~also~~ Figure 1. MRA Funding: Current and Constant Dollars (FY1996-FY2022) Source: CRS calculations based upon annual legislative branch appropriations acts, including supplemental appropriations and rescissions. Constant (2022) dol ars based on CPI-U information from Congressional Budget Office, An Update to the Budget and Economic Outlook: 2021 to 2031, “Historical Data and Economic Projections,” July 1, 2021. Figure 2 shows that the MRA is the largest category of appropriations within the House of shows that the MRA is the largest category of appropriations within the House of
Representatives, regularly comprising approximately Representatives, regularly comprising approximately 45%-50% of House appropriations. The MRA appropriation does not include certain benefits—including any government contributions toward health and life insurance and retirement, which are paid through another House account~~50% of House appropriations.~~

~~25 Constant (2020) dollar calculations are based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U, Bureau~~
~~of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor)~~. .
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Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage

Figure ~~1. MRA Funding: Current and Constant Dollars and Relationship to Overall~~
~~Funding for the House of Representatives~~
~~(FY1996-FY2020)~~2. MRA Funding Compared to Overall House Appropriations Current Dollars

Source: CRS calculations based upon annual legislativeCRS calculations based upon annual legislative branch appropriations acts, including supplemental branch appropriations acts, including supplemental
appropriations and rescissions.appropriations and rescissions. ~~Constant (2020) dol ars based on Consumer Price Index for Al Urban~~
~~Consumers (CPI-U, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor).~~
Establishment of a Separate Account for Paid Interns in FY2019 Prior to FY2019, any payments for interns in House Member offices were derived from the MRA. In FY2019, an administrative provision in the legislative branch appropriations act (P.L. 115-244) established a separate allowance for interns in Member offices. In the initial year, $8.8 million was provided for paid interns. In FY2020, $11.0 million was provided; in FY2021, $11.0 million; and in FY2022, $15.4 million. Individual MRAs for Members: Formula and
Authorized Levels Since 1996
The MRA for each Member is set by the Committee on House Administration based on three The MRA for each Member is set by the Committee on House Administration based on three
components: personnel, official office expenses, and official (franked) mail. The personnel components: personnel, official office expenses, and official (franked) mail. The personnel
~~al owance~~allowance component is the same for each Member. The office expenses and mail component is the same for each Member. The office expenses and mail ~~al owances~~allowances
components vary from Member to Member. The office expense component includes a base components vary from Member to Member. The office expense component includes a base
amount; a mileage amount; a mileage ~~al owance~~allowance, which is calculated based on the distance between a Member’s , which is calculated based on the distance between a Member’s
district and Washington, DC; and an office space district and Washington, DC; and an office space ~~al owance~~allowance, which is based on the cost of office , which is based on the cost of office
space in a Member’s district. The official mail component is calculated based on the number of space in a Member’s district. The official mail component is calculated based on the number of
Congressional Research Service 8 link to page 13 link to page 14 link to page 14 Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage nonbusiness addresses in a Member’s district. The three components result in a single MRA nonbusiness addresses in a Member’s district. The three components result in a single MRA
authorization for each Representative that can be used to pay for official expenses.authorization for each Representative that can be used to pay for official expenses.26
25 Table 2 demonstrates the variation in authorization levels that resulted from this formula since demonstrates the variation in authorization levels that resulted from this formula since
1996. Figure 23 presents this information graphically. As with the overall FY2021 appropriation, the average individual authorization for 2021 remained below the 2010 level in current (non-inflation adjusted) dollars. Additional information on actions taken to adjust the annual individual allowances follows. Table 2. Variation in Individual MRA Authorization Levels: 1996-2021 (current dollars) Average Lower Quartile Median Upper Quartile Year Minimum (Mean) Maximum (25th Percentile) (50th Percentile) ~~presents this information graphical y.~~
~~The 2020 individual Member authorizations remain below the levels authorized in 2010, which~~
~~was the peak year for MRA funding. Additional information on actions taken to adjust the annual~~
~~individual al owances follows.~~

~~26 For the 2019 formula, see U.S. Congress, House, Statement of Disbursements of the House, as compiled by the Chief~~
~~Administrative Officer, from January 1, 2019, to March 31 , 2019, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 116-26, 116th Cong., 1st sess.~~
~~(Washington: GPO, 2019), p. 2981.~~
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~~Table 2. Variation in Individual MRA Authorization Levels: 1996-2020~~
~~(current dol ars)~~
~~Average~~
~~Lower Quartile~~
~~Median~~
~~Upper Quartile~~
~~Year~~
~~Minimum~~
~~(Mean)~~
~~Maximum~~
~~(25th Percentile)~~
~~(50th Percentile)~~
(75th Percentile)
1996 1996
$824,671 $824,671
$886,751 $886,751
$1,026,976 $1,026,976
$865,420 $865,420
$881,682 $881,682
$902,167 $902,167
1997 1997
$836,231 $836,231
$901,165 $901,165
$1,038,535 $1,038,535
$879,620 $879,620
$896,606 $896,606
$918,490 $918,490
1998 1998
$854,904 $854,904
$919,396 $919,396
$1,056,176 $1,056,176
$897,967 $897,967
$914,672 $914,672
$936,395 $936,395
1999 1999
$885,424 $885,424
$952,102 $952,102
$1,088,405 $1,088,405
$930,137 $930,137
$947,661 $947,661
$967,940 $967,940
2000 2000
$914,895 $914,895
$985,831 $985,831
$1,122,018 $1,122,018
$962,571 $962,571
$981,204 $981,204
$1,001,807 $1,001,807
2001 2001 $1,009,420$1,009,420 $1,081,069 $1,081,069
$1,216,831 $1,216,831
$1,057,403 $1,057,403
$1,076,568 $1,076,568
$1,097,123 $1,097,123
2002 2002 $1,043,283$1,043,283 $1,114,319 $1,114,319
$1,258,737 $1,258,737
$1,089,931 $1,089,931
$1,109,598 $1,109,598
$1,130,975 $1,130,975
2003 2003 $1,116,519$1,116,519 $1,191,527 $1,191,527
$1,338,831 $1,338,831
$1,166,075 $1,166,075
$1,186,107 $1,186,107
$1,212,784 $1,212,784
2004 2004 $1,152,825$1,152,825 $1,234,976 $1,234,976
$1,370,805 $1,370,805
$1,206,116 $1,206,116
$1,228,892 $1,228,892
$1,258,233 $1,258,233
2005 2005 $1,188,715$1,188,715 $1,286,784 $1,286,784
$1,524,617 $1,524,617
$1,253,938 $1,253,938
$1,278,424 $1,278,424
$1,310,388 $1,310,388
2006 2006 $1,218,685$1,218,685 $1,335,086 $1,335,086
$1,574,753 $1,574,753
$1,301,692 $1,301,692
$1,326,374 $1,326,374
$1,360,650 $1,360,650
2007 2007 $1,262,065$1,262,065 $1,356,251 $1,356,251
$1,600,539 $1,600,539
$1,322,060 $1,322,060
$1,346,203 $1,346,203
$1,383,810 $1,383,810
2008 2008 $1,299,292$1,299,292 $1,393,391 $1,393,391
$1,637,766 $1,637,766
$1,359,350 $1,359,350
$1,383,430 $1,383,430
$1,420,454 $1,420,454
2009 2009 $1,391,370$1,391,370 $1,484,174 $1,484,174
$1,722,242 $1,722,242
$1,451,041 $1,451,041
$1,475,849 $1,475,849
$1,510,755 $1,510,755
2010 2010 $1,428,395$1,428,395 $1,522,114 $1,522,114
$1,759,575 $1,759,575
$1,488,258 $1,488,258
$1,513,947 $1,513,947
$1,549,464 $1,549,464
2011 2011 $1,356,975$1,356,975 $1,446,009 $1,446,009
$1,671,596 $1,671,596
$1,413,845 $1,413,845
$1,438,250 $1,438,250
$1,471,991 $1,471,991
2012 2012 $1,270,129$1,270,129 $1,353,205 $1,353,205
$1,564,613 $1,564,613
$1,323,334 $1,323,334
$1,345,972 $1,345,972
$1,377,773 $1,377,773
2013 2013 $1,183,717$1,183,717 $1,243,560 $1,243,560
$1,356,445 $1,356,445
$1,226,726 $1,226,726
$1,240,212 $1,240,212
$1,257,959 $1,257,959
2014 2014 $1,195,554$1,195,554 $1,255,909 $1,255,909
$1,370,009 $1,370,009
$1,239,263 $1,239,263
$1,252,531 $1,252,531
$1,270,493 $1,270,493
2015 2015 $1,195,554$1,195,554 $1,255,960 $1,255,960
$1,370,009 $1,370,009
$1,239,165 $1,239,165
$1,252,531 $1,252,531
$1,270,516 $1,270,516
2016 2016 $1,207,510$1,207,510 $1,268,520 $1,268,520
$1,383,709 $1,383,709
$1,251,557 $1,251,557
$1,265,056 $1,265,056
$1,283,221 $1,283,221
~~2017a~~2017a $1,251,177$1,251,177 $1,315,523 $1,315,523
$1,433,709 $1,433,709
$1,298,423 $1,298,423
$1,311,873 $1,311,873
$1,329,280 $1,329,280
2018 2018 $1,307,510$1,307,510 $1,368,520 $1,368,520
$1,483,709 $1,483,709
$1,351,457 $1,351,457
$1,365,056 $1,365,056
$1,383,243 $1,383,243
2019 2019 $1,320,585$1,320,585 $1,382,329 $1,382,329
$1,498,546 $1,498,546
$1,365,073 $1,365,073
$1,378,707 $1,378,707
$1,397,053 $1,397,053
2020 2020 $1,382,835$1,382,835 $1,444,579 $1,560,796 $1,427,323 $1,440,957 $1,459,303 25 For the 2021 formula, see U.S. Congress, House, Statement of Disbursements of the House, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, from April 1, 2021, to June 30, 2021, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 117-48, 117th Cong., 1st sess., p. 2657. Congressional Research Service 9 Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage Average Lower Quartile Median Upper Quartile Year Minimum (Mean) Maximum (25th Percentile) (50th Percentile) (75th Percentile) 2021 $1,447,835 $ 1,509,219 $1,625,796 $1,492,110 $1,505,847 $1,524,314~~$1,444,579~~
~~$1,560,796~~
~~$1,427,323~~
~~$1,440,957~~
~~$1,459,303~~
Source: CRS calculations based on the CRS calculations based on the Statements of Disbursements for 1996-for 1996-~~2020~~2021 (in current dol ars). (in current dol ars). The The
Member Member ~~al owances~~ allowances are available fromare available from January 3 through January 2 of the fol owing year. January 3 through January 2 of the fol owing year.
This table wil be updated when 2022 information is available. Notes: The calculations exclude nonvoting Members, The calculations exclude nonvoting Members, including Delegatesincluding Delegates and the Resident Commissioner. and the Resident Commissioner.
MembersMembers elected by special election and sworn in during the quarter are also excluded since the elected by special election and sworn in during the quarter are also excluded since the ~~al owance~~allowance level level
may be prorated. may be prorated.
a. Levelsa. Levels ~~represent~~ represent the initial 2017 authorizations and do not include the increase of $25,000 for each the initial 2017 authorizations and do not include the increase of $25,000 for each
authorization provided by H.Res. authorization provided by H.Res. 411, which was agreed to on June 27, 2017.411, which was agreed to on June 27, 2017.
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~~Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage~~

Figure 23. MRA Allowances by Member: Maximum, Minimum, and Mean
(current (current ~~dol ars~~dollars, 1996-, 1996-~~2020~~2021) )

Source: CRS calculations based on the CRS calculations based on the Statements of Disbursements including expenses for 1996-including expenses for 1996-~~2020~~2021 (in current (in current
dol ars).dol ars). The Member The Member ~~al owances~~allowances are available from January 3 through January 2 of the fol owing are available from January 3 through January 2 of the fol owing ~~year.~~
year. This figure wil be updated when 2022 information is available. Notes: The calculations exclude nonvoting Members, The calculations exclude nonvoting Members, including Delegatesincluding Delegates and the Resident Commissioner. and the Resident Commissioner.
MembersMembers elected by special election and sworn in after the start of the sessionelected by special election and sworn in after the start of the session also excluded since their also excluded since their
~~al owance~~allowance level level may be prorated. may be prorated.
112th Congress: Resolution Reducing Individual Authorizations
In the 112th Congress (2011-2012), the House agreed to H.Res. 22, which reduced the amount In the 112th Congress (2011-2012), the House agreed to H.Res. 22, which reduced the amount
authorized for salaries and expenses of Member, committee, and leadership offices in 2011 and authorized for salaries and expenses of Member, committee, and leadership offices in 2011 and
2012. This resolution, agreed to on January 6, 2011, stated that the MRA 2012. This resolution, agreed to on January 6, 2011, stated that the MRA ~~al owances~~allowances for these for these
years may not exceed 95% of the amount established for 2010. Individual MRAs, which reflect years may not exceed 95% of the amount established for 2010. Individual MRAs, which reflect
authorized levels from January 3 of each year through January 2 of the following year, authorized levels from January 3 of each year through January 2 of the following year,
subsequently were reduced, resulting in a total reduction of 11.08% from 2010 to 2012.subsequently were reduced, resulting in a total reduction of 11.08% from 2010 to 2012.27
~~113th Congress: Multiple Influences on Individual Authorized Levels~~
~~Individual authorization levels for 2013 (January 3, 2013-January 2, 2014), which were affected~~
~~by both redistricting28 and sequestration,29 were reduced by a total of 8.2% according to the~~

~~27 T he~~26 26 The Statement contains the following: “ contains the following: “~~T he~~The total amount of each Member’s 2012 total amount of each Member’s 2012 ~~Rep resentational~~Representational Allowance is Allowance is
88.92% of the amount authorized in 2010. 88.92% of the amount authorized in 2010. ~~T his~~This is in accordance with a 5% reduction to the 2010 authorization is in accordance with a 5% reduction to the 2010 authorization
mandated in Housemandated in House Resolution 22, agreedResolution 22, agreed to on January 6, 2011, and a 6.4% reduction to the 2011 authorization as to on January 6, 2011, and a 6.4% reduction to the 2011 authorization as
~~reflect ed in H.R. 2055, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2012 (P.L. 112-74).” U.S. Congress, House,~~ ~~Statem ent of~~
~~Disbursem ents of the House, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, from October 1, 2012, to December 31,~~
~~2012, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 112-160, 112th Cong., 2nd sess. (Washington: GPO, 2012), p. 2409.~~
~~28 T he individual authorizations correspond to the legislative year (January 3-January 2), while appropriations~~
~~correspond to the fiscal year (beginning October 1). T he 2013 authorization was the first to follow redistricting after the~~
~~2010 census and 2012 election cycle. Since the variables in the MRA formula—including distance from DC, the cost of~~
~~office space, and the number of nonbusiness addresses—account for district characteristics, the individual MRA may~~
~~vary following redistricting.~~
~~29 Pursuant to the Budget Control Act of 2011 (P.L. 112-25), as amended by the American T axpayer Relief Act of 2012~~
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~~link to page 9 link to page 9~~ ~~Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage~~

~~Statement of Disbursements.30~~ Congressional Research Service 10 link to page 9 link to page 9 Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage 113th Congress: Multiple Influences on Individual Authorized Levels Individual authorization levels for 2013 (January 3, 2013-January 2, 2014), which were affected by both redistricting27 and sequestration,28 were reduced by a total of 8.2% according to the Statement of Disbursements.29 For legislative year 2014 (January 3, 2014-January 2, 2015), each For legislative year 2014 (January 3, 2014-January 2, 2015), each
Member’s MRA increased by 1.0%.Member’s MRA increased by 1.0%.31
~~114th Congress~~30 Subsequent Years
The FY2015 MRA appropriations level remained unchanged from FY2014, and Members’ The FY2015 MRA appropriations level remained unchanged from FY2014, and Members’
~~individual al owances~~individual allowances were continued from legislative year 2014 to 2015. were continued from legislative year 2014 to 2015.3231
The FY2016 MRA appropriations level remained unchanged from FY2014 and FY2015, although The FY2016 MRA appropriations level remained unchanged from FY2014 and FY2015, although
Members’ individual Members’ individual ~~al owances~~allowances for legislative year 2016 were increased by 1.0%. for legislative year 2016 were increased by 1.0%.33
~~115th Congress~~32
The FY2017 MRA appropriations level increased by The FY2017 MRA appropriations level increased by +1.5% from FY2016. According to the 1.5% from FY2016. According to the
Statement of Disbursements, each Member’s authorization for 2017 was increased “by , each Member’s authorization for 2017 was increased “by
approximately 3.9% of the average MRA.”approximately 3.9% of the average MRA.”3433 This resulted in an average increase of This resulted in an average increase of
approximately $47,000. approximately $47,000.
A shooting on June 14, 2017, at a practice for the Congressional A shooting on June 14, 2017, at a practice for the Congressional ~~Basebal~~ Baseball Game, which wounded Game, which wounded
one Member of Congress, two U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) officers, and two members of the one Member of Congress, two U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) officers, and two members of the
public in Alexandria,public in Alexandria, VA, had an impact on consideration of MRA funding for FY2018. VA, had an impact on consideration of MRA funding for FY2018.
~~The report accompanying the legislative branch appropriations bil (H.R. 3162), in addition to~~
~~addressing funding for the Capitol Police and the House Sergeant at Arms, indicated that the~~
~~Appropriations “Committee has provided resources necessary to support the Committee on House~~
~~Administration’s plan to increase Member’s Representational Al owance (MRA) by $25,000 per~~

~~(P.L. 112-240), a sequestration order was issued on March 1, 2013 (White House, President Obama, Sequestration~~
~~Order for Fiscal Year 2013 Pursuant to Section 251A of the Balanced Budget and~~ reflected in H.R. 2055, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2012 (P.L. 112-74).” U.S. Congress, House, Statement of Disbursements of the House, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, from October 1, 2012, to December 31, 2012, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 112-160, 112th Cong., 2nd sess., p. 2409. 27 The individual authorizations correspond to the legislative year (January 3-January 2), while appropriations correspond to the fiscal year (beginning October 1). The 2013 authorization was the first to follow redistricting after the 2010 census and 2012 election cycle. Since the variables in the MRA formula—including distance from DC, the cost of office space, and the number of nonbusiness addresses—account for district characteristics, the individual MRA may vary following redistricting. 28 Pursuant to the Budget Control Act of 2011 (P.L. 112-25), as amended by the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (P.L. 112-240), a sequestration order was issued on March 1, 2013 (White House, President Obama, Sequestration Order for Fiscal Year 2013 Pursuant to Section 251A of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act, As Emergency Deficit Control Act, As
Amended, March 1, 2013, available at https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/DCPD-201300132/pdf/DCPD-Amended, March 1, 2013, available at https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/DCPD-201300132/pdf/DCPD-
201300132.pdf). 201300132.pdf).
~~30 T he~~29 The Statement contained the following: “Because the House is contained the following: “Because the House is operating under a continuing resolution at FY 2012 operating under a continuing resolution at FY 2012
levels, the total amount of funds available for MRAslevels, the total amount of funds available for MRAs remains unchanged.* However, to account for redistricting and remains unchanged.* However, to account for redistricting and
other factors, individual MRAs have beenother factors, individual MRAs have been recalculated usingrecalculated using the sum of the following components adjusted the sum of the following components adjusted
proportionally to ensure the total is consistent with 2012 funding levels.... proportionally to ensure the total is consistent with 2012 funding levels.... *This ~~am ount~~amount was reduced on March 4,
2013, by 8.2% to ~~com ply~~comply with sequestration orders issued pursuant to the Budget Control Act of 2011 .” U.S. Congress, .” U.S. Congress,
House, House, ~~Statem ent of Disbursem ents~~Statement of Disbursements of the House, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, from April 1, 2013, , as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, from April 1, 2013,
to June 30, 2013, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 113to June 30, 2013, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 113 -41, 113th Cong., 1st sess.-41, 113th Cong., 1st sess. ~~(Washington: GPO, 2013)~~, p. 2597. , p. 2597.
31 30 U.S. U.S. Congress, House,Congress, House, Statement of Disbursements of the House, as, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer,
from April 1, 2014, to June 30, 2014, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 113from April 1, 2014, to June 30, 2014, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 113 -141, 113th Cong., 2nd sess.-141, 113th Cong., 2nd sess. ~~(Washington: GPO, 2014)~~, p. , p.
2559. 2559.
3231 U.S. U.S. Congress, House,Congress, House, Statement of Disbursements of the House, as, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer,
from January 1, 2015, to March 31, 2015, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 114-29, 114th Cong., 1st sess.from January 1, 2015, to March 31, 2015, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 114-29, 114th Cong., 1st sess., p. 2854. 32 U.S. ~~(Washington: GPO, 2015),~~
~~p. 2854.~~
~~33 U.S.~~ Congress, House,Congress, House, Statement of Disbursements of the House, as, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer,
from January 1, 2016, to March 31, 2016, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 114from January 1, 2016, to March 31, 2016, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 114 -120, 114th Cong., 2nd sess.-120, 114th Cong., 2nd sess. ~~(Washington: GPO,~~
~~2016)~~, p. 2861. For information on the relationship between the appropriations and allocations, see the section on , p. 2861. For information on the relationship between the appropriations and allocations, see the section on
“Appropriations and Allocations: ~~T iming~~Timing Differences with the Overall Fiscal Year Appropriation and Individual
Member Calendar Year Authorization.”
~~34 U.S.~~ .” 33 U.S. Congress, House,Congress, House, Statement of Disbursements of the House, as, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer,
from April 1, 2017, to June 30, 2017from April 1, 2017, to June 30, 2017 , part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 115-52, 115th Cong., 1st sess., part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 115-52, 115th Cong., 1st sess. ~~(Washington: GPO, 2017)~~, p. , p.
2664. 2664.
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The report accompanying the legislative branch appropriations bill (H.R. 3162), in addition to addressing funding for the Capitol Police and the House Sergeant at Arms, indicated that the Appropriations “Committee has provided resources necessary to support the Committee on House Administration’s plan to increase Member’s Representational Allowance (MRA) by $25,000 per account this year for the purpose of providing Member security when away from the Capitol account this year for the purpose of providing Member security when away from the Capitol
complex.”complex.”35
34 The House approved the MRA authorization increases when it agreed to H.Res. 411, by The House approved the MRA authorization increases when it agreed to H.Res. 411, by
unanimous consent, on June 27, 2017. unanimous consent, on June 27, 2017.
As stated above, during consideration in the House of the FY2018 legislative As stated above, during consideration in the House of the FY2018 legislative branch branch
appropriations appropriations ~~bil~~ bill (H.R. 3219)(H.R. 3219)3635 on July 26, 2017, two amendments related to the MRA were on July 26, 2017, two amendments related to the MRA were
offered: H.Amdt. 214 was agreed to by voice vote, and H.Amdt. 213 failed by voice vote. offered: H.Amdt. 214 was agreed to by voice vote, and H.Amdt. 213 failed by voice vote.
Subsequently, on July 28, 2017, House Sergeant at Arms Paul D. Irving issued a “Dear Subsequently, on July 28, 2017, House Sergeant at Arms Paul D. Irving issued a “Dear
Colleague” letter announcing that his office “Colleague” letter announcing that his office “~~wil~~ will assume the cost of and oversee future District assume the cost of and oversee future District
Office security upgrades, maintenance, and monthly monitoring fees.”Office security upgrades, maintenance, and monthly monitoring fees.”3736 These upgrades were These upgrades were
previously supported through the MRA. previously supported through the MRA.
On August 15, 2017, the Committee on House Administration issued a “Dear Colleague” letter On August 15, 2017, the Committee on House Administration issued a “Dear Colleague” letter
announcing updates to the announcing updates to the Members’ Congressional Handbook incorporating these and other incorporating these and other
changes.changes.3837 The MRA remains available The MRA remains available for security measures necessitated by official duties as for security measures necessitated by official duties as
discussed in the letter and the discussed in the letter and the Handbook. .
The FY2018 act continued the FY2017 level of $562.6 The FY2018 act continued the FY2017 level of $562.6 ~~mil ion~~million. According to the . According to the Statement of
Disbursements, the “Members’ Representational , the “Members’ Representational ~~Al owance~~Allowance for 2018 utilizes each Member’s for 2018 utilizes each Member’s
2017 amount and increases that amount by $25,000.”2017 amount and increases that amount by $25,000.”39
~~116th Congress~~38
The FY2019 act provided $573.6 The FY2019 act provided $573.6 ~~mil ion~~ million (+2.0%). According to the (+2.0%). According to the Statement of Disbursements, ,
Members’ individual Members’ individual ~~al owances~~allowances for legislative year 2019 were increased by 1.0%. for legislative year 2019 were increased by 1.0%.4039
The FY2020 law (P.L. 116-94) The FY2020 law (P.L. 116-94) ~~provides~~provided $615.0 $615.0 ~~mil ion~~million, an increase of $41.4 , an increase of $41.4 ~~mil ion~~million (+7.2%). (+7.2%).
According to the According to the Statement of Disbursements, Members’ individual , Members’ individual ~~al owances~~allowances for legislative for legislative
year 2020 were increased by $62,250.year 2020 were increased by $62,250.41

~~35 U.S. Congress, House~~ 40 34 U.S. Congress, House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Legislative Branch, Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Legislative Branch, Legislative Branch,
2018, report to accompany H.R. 3162, 115th Cong., 1st sess., July 6, 2017, H.Rept. 115-199, report to accompany H.R. 3162, 115th Cong., 1st sess., July 6, 2017, H.Rept. 115-199 ~~(Washington: GPO, 2017),~~
, p. 3. Seep. 3. See also the also the ~~Mem bers~~Members’ Congressional Handbook, https://cha.house.gov. https://cha.house.gov.
3635 On July On July 18, the text of H.R. 3162 was included18, the text of H.R. 3162 was included in a print issuedin a print issued by the House Rulesby the House Rules Committee entitled, “Text of the Committee entitled, “Text of the
Defense, Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, Legislative Branch, and Energy AndDefense, Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, Legislative Branch, and Energy And Water Development National Water Development National
Security Appropriations Act, 2018” (Committee Print 115Security Appropriations Act, 2018” (Committee Print 115 -30, which also contains the text of H.R. 3219, H.R. 2998, -30, which also contains the text of H.R. 3219, H.R. 2998,
and H.R. 3266). Subsequently,and H.R. 3266). Subsequently, the House agreedthe House agreed on September 14 to H.Res. 500, which includedon September 14 to H.Res. 500, which included the text of Rules the text of Rules
Committee Print 115-31, as amended, in an amendment in the nature of a substitute for H.R. 3354. Committee Print 115-31, as amended, in an amendment in the nature of a substitute for H.R. 3354. ~~T he~~The text of the text of the
legislative branch bill,legislative branch bill, as agreedas agreed to in H.R. 3219, wasto in H.R. 3219, was unchanged. H.R. 3354, which then included text for all 12 unchanged. H.R. 3354, which then included text for all 12
appropriations bills, wasappropriations bills, was ~~agreed~~ agreed to in the House on September 14, 2017.to in the House on September 14, 2017.
37 36 Available to House offices at https://e-dearcolleague.house.gov/. Available to House offices at https://e-dearcolleague.house.gov/.
~~38 T he~~37 The updated Handbook is updated Handbook is available atavailable at https://cha.house.gov/. https://cha.house.gov/.
3938 U.S. U.S. Congress, House,Congress, House, Statement of Disbursements of the House, as, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer,
from July 1, 2018, to September 30, 2018, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 115from July 1, 2018, to September 30, 2018, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 115 -161, 115th Cong., 2nd sess.-161, 115th Cong., 2nd sess. ~~(Washington: GPO,~~
~~2018)~~, p. 2523. , p. 2523.
40 39 U.S. U.S. Congress, House,Congress, House, Statement of Disbursements of the House, as, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer,
from January 1, 2019, to March 31, 2019, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 116-26, 116th Cong., 1st sess.from January 1, 2019, to March 31, 2019, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 116-26, 116th Cong., 1st sess., ~~(Washington: GPO, 2019),~~
p. 2981. p. 2981.
4140 U.S. U.S. Congress, House,Congress, House, Statement of Disbursements of the House, as, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer,
from January 1, 2020, to March 31, 2020, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 116from January 1, 2020, to March 31, 2020, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 116 -116, 116th Cong., 2nd sess.-116, 116th Cong., 2nd sess. ~~(Washington: GPO,~~
~~2020)~~, p. 3399. , p. 3399.
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The The ~~House requested $672.0 mil ion for FY2021, an increase of $57.0 mil ion (+9.3%). The~~
~~House-reported FY2021 legislative branch appropriations bil (H.R. 7611) recommends $640.0~~
~~mil ion (+4.1~~FY2021 law (P.L. 116-260) provided $640.0 million (+4.1%). According to the Statement of Disbursements, Members’ individual allowances for legislative year 2021 were increased by $65,000.41 The FY2022 law (P.L. 117-103) provides $774.4 million (+21.0%). %).
Guidelines, Operations, and Sources of Regulations
Expenses related to official and representational duties are reimbursable under the MRA in Expenses related to official and representational duties are reimbursable under the MRA in
accordance with the regulations contained in the accordance with the regulations contained in the Members’ Congressional Handbook. .
The The Handbook, for example, states that a , for example, states that a
Member Member is personallyis personally ~~responsible for the payment of any official and~~ responsible for the payment of any official and representational representational
expensesexpenses ~~incurred~~ incurred that exceed the providedthat exceed the provided MRA or that are incurredMRA or that are incurred but are not but are not
reimbursable under these regulations.42reimbursable under these regulations.42
Certain expenses, including personal expenses, greeting cards, alcoholic beverages, and most Certain expenses, including personal expenses, greeting cards, alcoholic beverages, and most
gifts and donations, are also not reimbursable. The MRA is not transferable between years, and gifts and donations, are also not reimbursable. The MRA is not transferable between years, and
unspent funds from one year cannot be obligated in any subsequent year. unspent funds from one year cannot be obligated in any subsequent year.
Other limitations on the use of official funds are also contained in House Rule XXIV. Other limitations on the use of official funds are also contained in House Rule XXIV.
“Dear Colleague” Letters Related to the MRA
“Dear Colleague”“Dear Colleague” letters—which are distributed among Members, committees, and officers—letters—which are distributed among Members, committees, and officers—
frequently mention the MRA. These “Dear Colleague” letters have announced changes in the frequently mention the MRA. These “Dear Colleague” letters have announced changes in the
dissemination of information or the processing of vouchers, elaborated on procedures, reminded dissemination of information or the processing of vouchers, elaborated on procedures, reminded
Members and staff of guidelines on the use of funds, and asked for support for MRA legislation. Members and staff of guidelines on the use of funds, and asked for support for MRA legislation.
The Committee on House Administration, for example, has distributed regular annual “Dear The Committee on House Administration, for example, has distributed regular annual “Dear
Colleagues” announcing or explaining regulations, such as those pertaining to end-of-year Colleagues” announcing or explaining regulations, such as those pertaining to end-of-year
expenses, district office space, and travel.43 Other letters have been issued regarding expenses, district office space, and travel.43 Other letters have been issued regarding ~~al owable~~allowable
franking and MRA expenses for the annual Congressional Art Competition or travel for a franking and MRA expenses for the annual Congressional Art Competition or travel for a
Member’s funeral service, as Member’s funeral service, as ~~wel~~ well as reminders of prohibited expenses.44 The letters have as reminders of prohibited expenses.44 The letters have
explained the implication of new regulations, rulings, or decisions on MRA spending.45 They also explained the implication of new regulations, rulings, or decisions on MRA spending.45 They also
~~have summarized changes to the Statement of Disbursements and announced the publication of~~
~~new quarterly information.46~~

~~42 T he~~ 41 U.S. Congress, House, Statement of Disbursements of the House, as compiled by the Chief Administrative Officer, from April 1, 2021, to June 30, 2021, part 3 of 3, H.Doc. 117-48, 117th Cong., 1st sess., p. 2657. 42 The Members’ Handbook is available at https://cha.house.gov/. is available at https://cha.house.gov/.
43 For example, recent Dear Colleague43 For example, recent Dear Colleague letters issuedletters issued by the Committee on House Administration have included by the Committee on House Administration have included
~~“Deadline to Use Obligated Funds-April 1,” March 26, 2019~~“End-of-Year Expenses: Policies and Best Practices,” November 15, 2021; “End-of-Year Expenses: Policies and Best Practices,” ; “End-of-Year Expenses: Policies and Best Practices,”
December 6, 2018; and “December 6, 2018; and “ Updates to the Members’ and Committees’ Congressional Handbooks,” March 5, 2018. Updates to the Members’ and Committees’ Congressional Handbooks,” March 5, 2018.
44 For example 44 For example:, Dear Colleague Dear Colleague letter from the Sergeant at Arms related to travel for the funeral of a deceasedletter from the Sergeant at Arms related to travel for the funeral of a deceased Member Member
of Congress,of Congress, March 19, 2018; March 19, 2018; ~~and~~ Dear ColleagueDear Colleague letter from the Committee on House Administration, “letter from the Committee on House Administration, “ 2018 2018
Conference and CaucusConference and Caucus Retreats,” January 8, 2018; “Non-Commercial Aircraft Travel,” April 10, 2019; and “Joint House Administration-Ethics Guidance Regarding Redistricting,” September 10, 2021. ~~Retreats,” January 8, 2018.~~
45 For example, Dear Colleague45 For example, Dear Colleague letters issuedletters issued by the Committee on House Administration have included,by the Committee on House Administration have included, “Using Your “Using Your
MRA for District Office SecurityMRA for District Office Security Assessments and Upgrades,”Assessments and Upgrades,” January 18, 2011; January 18, 2011; ~~and, “~~ “Automated Calls to Mobile Devices,” July 26, 2016; and “Availability of Hand Sanitizer and Face Coverings for Member and Committee Offices,” April 21, 2020~~Automated Calls to Mobile~~
~~Devices,” July 26, 2016.~~
~~46 For example, Dear Colleague Letter from the CAO [Chief Administrative Officer] of the House, “Increased~~
~~T ransparency in Statement of Disbursements,” August 18, 2011; Dear Colleague Letter from the CAO of the House,~~
~~“Statement of Disbursements to Publish Merchant Information for Purchase Card T ransactions,” CAO of the House,~~
~~June 22, 2012; and Dear Colleague Letter from the CAO of the House, “ First Quarter 2019 Statement of~~
~~Disbursements,” May 28, 2019~~. .
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Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage

have summarized changes to the Statement of Disbursements and announced the publication of new quarterly information.46 Categories of Spending ~~Categories of Spending~~
House spending is categorized by the standard budget object classes used for the federal House spending is categorized by the standard budget object classes used for the federal
government.47 These may includegovernment.47 These may include
 personnel compensation;  personnel compensation;
 travel;  travel;
 rent, communications, and utilities;  rent, communications, and utilities;
 printing and reproduction;  printing and reproduction;
 other services;  other services;
 supplies and materials;48 supplies and materials;48
 transportation of things; and  transportation of things; and
 equipment. equipment.
The disbursement volumes also contain a category for franked mail. The disbursement volumes also contain a category for franked mail.
Certain costs are not included in the MRA and Certain costs are not included in the MRA and ~~wil~~ will not be reflected in these totals. The not be reflected in these totals. The ~~c osts~~costs
include the salaries of Members49 and certain benefits—including any government contributions include the salaries of Members49 and certain benefits—including any government contributions
toward health and life insurance and retirement—for both Members and staff. toward health and life insurance and retirement—for both Members and staff. ~~Additional y~~Additionally, the , the
range of items that may be covered by an office has changed over time.50 The MRA also does not range of items that may be covered by an office has changed over time.50 The MRA also does not
reflect spending by House officers and legislative branch agencies in support of Member offices. reflect spending by House officers and legislative branch agencies in support of Member offices.
Statements of Disbursements: Online Publication
and CSV Availability
The The Statements of Disbursements are published as House documents and were are published as House documents and were ~~historical y~~historically
availableavailable in bound volumes. Beginning with the disbursements for the quarter ending September in bound volumes. Beginning with the disbursements for the quarter ending September
30, 2009, the 30, 2009, the Statements have been posted on the House of Representatives website, House.gov.51 have been posted on the House of Representatives website, House.gov.51
~~Beginning with disbursements covering January-March 2016, this website provides SOD~~
~~information in a sortable CSV (comma-separated values) format.~~

~~47 T his classification system is based on U.S. Office of Management and Budget,~~ ~~OMB Circular~~ 46 For example, Dear Colleague Letter from the CAO [Chief Administrative Officer] of the House, “Increased Transparency in Statement of Disbursements,” August 18, 2011; Dear Colleague Letter from the CAO of the House, “Statement of Disbursements to Publish Merchant Information for Purchase Card Transactions,” CAO of the House, June 22, 2012; and Dear Colleague Letter from the CAO of the House, “First Quarter 2019 Statement of Disbursements,” May 28, 2019. 47 This classification system is based on U.S. Office of Management and Budget, OMB Circular A-11, 2019 edition, , 2019 edition,
https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/information-for-agencies/circulars/. https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/information-for-agencies/circulars/.
48 48 ~~T his~~This may include, may include, for examplefor example:, office supplies, bottled water, and publication/reference material. office supplies, bottled water, and publication/reference material.
49 Member pay is included49 Member pay is included in a permanent appropriation (P.L. 97-51; 95 Stat. 966; September 11, 1981). in a permanent appropriation (P.L. 97-51; 95 Stat. 966; September 11, 1981).
50 For example, in a “50 For example, in a “ Dear Colleague”Dear Colleague” letter of April 20, 2009, the Committee on House Administration announced that letter of April 20, 2009, the Committee on House Administration announced that
effective June 1, 2009, the transit benefit program would beeffective June 1, 2009, the transit benefit program would be administered centrally and available to all qualifying administered centrally and available to all qualifying
HouseHouse employees. Previously, Members couldemployees. Previously, Members could determine whether or not to provide the transit benefit to their determine whether or not to provide the transit benefit to their
employees from the MRA, and those who offered this benefit wouldemployees from the MRA, and those who offered this benefit would record the expenditure under the personnel record the expenditure under the personnel
benefits category. For another example, certain security-related costs, including “benefits category. For another example, certain security-related costs, including “ the cost of ... District Office security the cost of ... District Office security
upgrades,upgrades, maintenance, and monthly monitoring fees,” is now supported by the House Sergeantmaintenance, and monthly monitoring fees,” is now supported by the House Sergeant at Arms (at Arms ( “Dear “Dear
Colleague”Colleague” letter of July 28, 2017, issuedletter of July 28, 2017, issued by Houseby House Sergeant at Arms Paul D. Irving). Sergeant at Arms Paul D. Irving).
51 51 ~~T he~~The Statements of Disbursements are availableare available at https://www.house.gov/the-house-explained/open-government/at https://www.house.gov/the-house-explained/open-government/
statementstatement -of-disbursements. -of-disbursements.
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link to page 20 link to page 23 link to page 20 link to page 23 ~~link to page 24~~ Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage

Beginning with disbursements covering January-March 2016, this website provides SOD information in a sortable CSV (comma-separated values) format. The MRA in Historical Practice: An Analysis of
Spending in Selected Years
This section examines the use of the MRA in practice in recent years. This section examines the use of the MRA in practice in recent years.
Methodology
Disbursement information for each authorization year may appear in Disbursement information for each authorization year may appear in Statements for 12 quarters, for 12 quarters,
since, as discussed above, late-arriving since, as discussed above, late-arriving ~~bil s~~bills may be paid for up to two years following the end of may be paid for up to two years following the end of
the MRA year (although unspent funds from one year cannot be obligated in any subsequent the MRA year (although unspent funds from one year cannot be obligated in any subsequent
year). For example, while Members could only obligate 2011 MRA expenditures from January 3, year). For example, while Members could only obligate 2011 MRA expenditures from January 3,
2011, until January 2, 2012, late-arriving receipts could be paid through the quarter ending 2011, until January 2, 2012, late-arriving receipts could be paid through the quarter ending
December 31, 2013. While some December 31, 2013. While some ~~bil s~~bills, particularly from outside vendors, may be settled up to , particularly from outside vendors, may be settled up to
eight quarters after the end of the MRA year, the vast majority of eight quarters after the end of the MRA year, the vast majority of ~~bil ing~~ billing occurs during the session occurs during the session
or in the quarter immediately following the close of the MRA year. or in the quarter immediately following the close of the MRA year. ~~Bil ing~~ Billing for some categoriesfor some categories ——
like personnel compensation—is almost entirely within the disbursements for the calendar year of like personnel compensation—is almost entirely within the disbursements for the calendar year of
study.52 By examining volumes from subsequent quarters, in addition to those from the study.52 By examining volumes from subsequent quarters, in addition to those from the
authorization year, it is possible to provide a more complete picture of spending patterns.53authorization year, it is possible to provide a more complete picture of spending patterns.53
Analysis
Numerous characteristics of individual congressional districts or Member preferences can Numerous characteristics of individual congressional districts or Member preferences can
influence spending priorities, which is reflected in the flexibilityinfluence spending priorities, which is reflected in the flexibility provided to Members in provided to Members in
establishing and running their offices.54 Despite some variations, the data, however, show a establishing and running their offices.54 Despite some variations, the data, however, show a
relative consistency in the relative consistency in the ~~overal al ocation~~overall allocation of MRA resources by category of spending both of MRA resources by category of spending both
across Members and over time.55across Members and over time.55
Table 3 provides a distributional analysis of office-level data for certain categories of spending, provides a distributional analysis of office-level data for certain categories of spending,
~~while~~while Figure 34 demonstrates aggregate House spending in these years. demonstrates aggregate House spending in these years.
The office-level and aggregate data indicate that personnel compensation is by far the largest The office-level and aggregate data indicate that personnel compensation is by far the largest
category of expense for Member offices, and it increased as a percentage of spending over this category of expense for Member offices, and it increased as a percentage of spending over this
time period. Spending on travel and “Rent, Communications, and Utilities”time period. Spending on travel and “Rent, Communications, and Utilities” remained relatively remained relatively
stable, while spending on franked mail decreased for the average and median Members and for stable, while spending on franked mail decreased for the average and median Members and for
the House the House ~~overal .~~
Table 4 shows spending as a proportion of the total individual authorization.

~~52 Since~~ overall. 52 Since the MRA is available through January 2, but the the MRA is available through January 2, but the Statements for the fourth quarter cover obligations through for the fourth quarter cover obligations through
December 31, personnel compensation for January 1 and January 2 in an MRADecember 31, personnel compensation for January 1 and January 2 in an MRA year willyear will ~~usually~~ usually appear in the volume appear in the volume
for the subsequentfor the subsequent calendar year (January 1-March 31), under a headingcalendar year (January 1-March 31), under a heading indicating that it is billedindicating that it is billed to the previous MRA to the previous MRA
year. year.
53 For 2018 and 2019, preliminary data are provided. 53 For 2018 and 2019, preliminary data are provided.
54 54 ~~T hese~~These may include, for example: the cost may include, for example: the cost -of-living in the districts from which Members are elected; actual -of-living in the districts from which Members are elected; actual
transportation costs to and from the district or around the district; geographical sizetransportation costs to and from the district or around the district; geographical size of the district; number of people of the district; number of people
living in the district; or other characteristics of a district that may influence spending patterns, including varying living in the district; or other characteristics of a district that may influence spending patterns, including varying
expectations among expectations among ~~constituent s~~constituents for different levels or types of contact. for different levels or types of contact.
55 See55 See also information on average expenditures for FY2013 provided for the record duringalso information on average expenditures for FY2013 provided for the record during the House Appropriations the House Appropriations
Committee FY2015 hearings (U.S. Congress, HouseCommittee FY2015 hearings (U.S. Congress, House Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on the Legislative Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on the Legislative
Branch, Branch, Legislative Branch Appropriations for ~~20 15~~2015, hearings, 113th Cong., 2nd sess., March 6, 2014, hearings, 113th Cong., 2nd sess., March 6, 2014 ~~[Washington:~~
~~GPO, 2014]~~, pp. 292-293). , pp. 292-293).
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link to page 24 Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage

Table 4 shows spending as a proportion of the total individual authorization. Table 3. Distribution of Office-Level Spending on Select Categories: 2009-2019
(percentage of total expenditure in the individual MRA) (percentage of total expenditure in the individual MRA)
Lower
Upper
Category of
Ave. %
Quartile
Median
Quartile
Expense
Year
Min %
(Mean)
Max %
(25th%)
(50th%)
(75th%)
2009 2009
0 0
4 4
15 15
1 1
4 4
7 7
2010 2010
0 0
4 4
16 16
2 2
4 4
6 6
2011 2011
0 0
3 3
13 13
1 1
3 3
5 5
2012 2012
0 0
3 3
14 14
1 1
2 2
5 5
Franked Mail
2013 2013
0 0
2 2
14 14
0 0
1 1
3 3
2014 2014
0 0
2 2
12 12
0 0
1 1
4 4
2015 2015
0 0
2 2
16 16
0 0
1 1
4 4
2016 2016
0 0
2 2
19 19
0 0
1 1
4 4
2017 2017
0 0
2 2
12 12
0 0
1 1
3 3

2018 2018
0 0
3 3
13 13
0 0
2 2
4 4

2019 2019
0 0
2 2
12 12
0 0
1 1
3 3
2009 2009
48 48
69 69
86 86
65 65
70 70
75 75
2010 2010
53 53
71 71
88 88
65 65
71 71
76 76
2011 2011
45 45
71 71
89 89
66 66
71 71
76 76
2012 2012
54 54
75 75
91 91
71 71
75 75
80 80
Personnel Compensation
2013 2013
56 56
75 75
88 88
70 70
76 76
79 79
~~Compensation~~
2014 2014
56 56
76 76
88 88
72 72
77 77
80 80
2015 2015
46 46
75 75
88 88
71 71
75 75
79 79
2016 2016
47 47
77 77
90 90
73 73
77 77
81 81
2017 2017
53 53
74 74
89 89
71 71
75 75
79 79

2018 2018
53 53
77 77
90 90
72 72
77 77
82 82

2019 2019
54 54
74 74
88 88
70 70
74 74
79 79
2009 2009
0 0
4 4
11 11
3 3
4 4
6 6
2010 2010
0 0
4 4
15 15
3 3
4 4
5 5
2011 2011
0 0
4 4
11 11
3 3
4 4
6 6
2012 2012
0 0
4 4
12 12
2 2
4 4
5 5
Travel
2013 2013
0 0
4 4
13 13
3 3
4 4
5 5
2014 2014
0 0
4 4
15 15
3 3
4 4
6 6
2015 2015
0 0
4 4
15 15
3 3
4 4
6 6
2016 2016
0 0
4 4
13 13
3 3
4 4
5 5
2017 2017
0 0
4 4
14 14
3 3
4 4
5 5

2018 2018
0 0
4 4
16 16
3 3
4 4
5 5

~~2019~~
0
4
15
3
4
5
~~2009~~
3
8
17
7
8
9
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Lower
Upper
Category of
Ave. %
Quartile
Median
Quartile
Expense
Year
Min %
(Mean)
Max %
(25th%)
(50th%)
(75th%)
~~Rent,~~
~~2010~~ 2019 0 4 15 3 4 5 2009
3 3
8 8
17 17
67
78 9 2010 3 8 17 6 7 9
9
~~Communications,~~
~~and Utilities~~
2011 2011
3 3
8 8
17 17
7 7
8 8
10 10
2012 2012
3 3
8 8
15 15
6 6
8 8
9 9
Rent, Communications, 2013 2013
3 3
8 8
18 18
7 7
8 8
10 10 and Utilities
2014 2014
3 3
8 8
18 18
7 7
8 8
9 9
2015 2015
2 2
8 8
19 19
7 7
8 8
10 10
2016 2016
3 3
8 8
19 19
6 6
8 8
9 9
2017 2017
3 3
8 8
20 20
7 7
8 8
10 10

2018 2018
2 2
8 8
20 20
6 6
7 7
9 9

2019 2019
2 2
9 9
21 21
7 7
8 8
10 10
Equipment
2009 2009
0 0
2 2
11 11
1 1
1 1
2 2

2010 2010
0 0
2 2
9 9
1 1
1 1
2 2

2011 2011
0 0
2 2
7 7
1 1
1 1
2 2

2012 2012
0 0
1 1
7 7
0 0
1 1
2 2

2013 2013
0 0
1 1
10 10
0 0
1 1
1 1

2014 2014
0 0
1 1
6 6
1 1
1 1
2 2

2015 2015
0 0
1 1
7 7
0 0
1 1
2 2

2016 2016
0 0
1 1
6 6
0 0
1 1
2 2

2017 2017
0 0
1 1
9 9
1 1
1 1
2 2

2018 2018
0 0
1 1
7 7
0 0
1 1
2 2

2019 2019
0 0
1 1
7 7
1 1
1 1
2 2
Printing and
2009 2009
0 0
5 5
23 23
1 1
4 4
7 7
Reproduction
2010 2010
0 0
4 4
14 14
1 1
3 3
6 6

2011 2011
0 0
4 4
15 15
1 1
3 3
6 6

2012 2012
0 0
3 3
18 18
0 0
3 3
5 5

2013 2013
0 0
3 3
16 16
0 0
2 2
4 4

2014 2014
0 0
3 3
14 14
0 0
2 2
4 4

2015 2015
0 0
3 3
23 23
0 0
2 2
4 4

2016 2016
0 0
2 2
24 24
0 0
2 2
4 4

2017 2017
0 0
3 3
17 17
0 0
2 2
4 4

2018 2018
0 0
3 3
23 23
0 0
2 2
5 5

2019 2019
0 0
3 3
22 22
0 0
2 2
5 5
Supplies and
2009 2009
1 1
3 3
9 9
3 3
3 3
4 4
Materials
2010 2010
0 0
3 3
11 11
2 2
3 3
4 4

~~2011~~
1
3
10
2
3
4

~~2012~~
0
3
10
1
2
3
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Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage

Lower
Upper
Category of
Ave. %
Quartile
Median
Quartile
Expense
Year
Min %
(Mean)
Max %
(25th%)
(50th%)
(75th%)

2011 1 3 10 2 3 4 2012 0 3 10 1 2 3 2013 2013
0 0
2 2
8 8
1 1
2 2
3 3

2014 2014
0 0
2 2
8 8
1 1
2 2
3 3

2015 2015
0 0
2 2
7 7
1 1
2 2
3 3

2016 2016
0 0
3 3
9 9
2 2
2 2
3 3

2017 2017
0 0
2 2
9 9
1 1
2 2
3 3

2018 2018
0 0
2 2
9 9
1 1
2 2
3 3

2019 2019
0 0
2 2
6 6
1 1
2 2
3 3
Other Services
2009 2009
1 1
4 4
11 11
3 3
4 4
5 5

2010 2010
0 0
4 4
10 10
3 3
4 4
5 5

2011 2011
2 2
5 5
13 13
4 4
5 5
6 6

2012 2012
1 1
3 3
9 9
2 2
3 3
3 3

2013 2013
2 2
4 4
9 9
3 3
4 4
6 6

2014 2014
2 2
3 3
8 8
2 2
3 3
4 4

2015 2015
1 1
4 4
8 8
3 3
4 4
5 5

2016 2016
1 1
3 3
8 8
2 2
3 3
4 4

2017 2017
1 1
4 4
9 9
3 3
4 4
6 6

2018 2018
1 1
3 3
12 12
2 2
2 2
3 3

2019 2019
2 2
5 5
11 11
3 3
4 4
6 6
Source: CRS calculations based on the CRS calculations based on the Statement of Disbursements covering expenditures for 2009-2019. For covering expenditures for 2009-2019. For
2018, nine quarters are available as of the date of this update. For 2019, five quarters are available as of the date 2018, nine quarters are available as of the date of this update. For 2019, five quarters are available as of the date
of this update. Preliminaryof this update. Preliminary data are provided. data are provided.
Notes: Data exclude nonvoting Members, Data exclude nonvoting Members, including the Delegatesincluding the Delegates and Resident Commissioner.and Resident Commissioner. Members who Members who
were not in Congresswere not in Congress for the entirety of the MRA year were also excluded, since spending for any portion may for the entirety of the MRA year were also excluded, since spending for any portion may
not be reflectivenot be reflective of expenditures in an uninterrupted year. This limitation resultedof expenditures in an uninterrupted year. This limitation resulted in the fol owing number of in the fol owing number of
MembersMembers included in the data: for 2009, 429; 2010, 428; 2011, 430; 2012, 426; 2013, 428; 2014, 430; 2015, 431; included in the data: for 2009, 429; 2010, 428; 2011, 430; 2012, 426; 2013, 428; 2014, 430; 2015, 431;
2016, 431; 2017, 426; 2018, 424; and 2019, 428. 2016, 431; 2017, 426; 2018, 424; and 2019, 428.
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Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage

Figure 34. Expenditures by Category, as a Percentage of Aggregate MRA Spending

Source: CRS calculations based on the CRS calculations based on the Statements of Disbursements. .
Notes: This figure only represents This figure only represents spending supported by the MRA. For example,spending supported by the MRA. For example, this figure does not include this figure does not include
government contributions for employeegovernment contributions for employee benefits (which are paid through another House account), Member benefits (which are paid through another House account), Member
salaries,salaries, the cost of DC office space, and various servicesthe cost of DC office space, and various services provided by Houseprovided by House support officessupport offices or legislativeor legislative branch branch
agencies. It also does not include categories of spending that agencies. It also does not include categories of spending that ~~occasional y~~ occasionally appear in the appear in the Statements of
Disbursements,, ~~but general y~~ but generally account for less account for less than 0.00% of spending each year (e.g., “transportation of things”)than 0.00% of spending each year (e.g., “transportation of things”) . .
Data exclude nonvoting Members,Data exclude nonvoting Members, including the Delegates and Resident Commissioner.including the Delegates and Resident Commissioner. Members who wereMembers who were not not
in Congress for the entirety of the MRA year were also excluded. in Congress for the entirety of the MRA year were also excluded.
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Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage

Table 4. Spending as a Percentage of Authorization: 2009-2019
(based on Members who served the entire year) (based on Members who served the entire year)

Percent of Members
Percent Spent
Year <70% 70-75 75-80 80-85 85-90 90-95 95-99
>99%
Mean
Median
2009 2009
0.5% 0.5%
0.5% 0.5%
1.4% 1.4%
5.6% 5.6%
13.8% 28.7% 35.4% 13.8% 28.7% 35.4% 14.2% 14.2%
93.7% 93.7%
94.9% 94.9%
2010 2010
0.2% 0.2%
0.7% 0.7%
2.6% 2.6%
4.9% 4.9%
13.1% 20.1% 37.1% 13.1% 20.1% 37.1% 21.3% 21.3%
94.2% 94.2%
96.0% 96.0%
2011 2011
0.7% 0.7%
0.2% 0.2%
1.9% 1.9%
5.8% 5.8%
12.8% 24.0% 34.7% 12.8% 24.0% 34.7% 20.0% 20.0%
94.0% 94.0%
95.6% 95.6%
2012 2012
0.2% 0.2%
0.7% 0.7%
1.6% 1.6%
3.1% 3.1%
11.3% 21.6% 38.0% 11.3% 21.6% 38.0% 23.5% 23.5%
94.8% 94.8%
96.8% 96.8%
2013 2013
0.2% 0.2%
0.0% 0.0%
0.7% 0.7%
1.4% 1.4%
4.4% 4.4%
17.8% 40.9% 17.8% 40.9% 34.6% 34.6%
96.5% 96.5%
98.1% 98.1%
2014 2014
0.5% 0.5%
0.2% 0.2%
0.0% 0.0%
3.5% 3.5%
7.0% 7.0%
21.4% 41.4% 21.4% 41.4% 26.0% 26.0%
95.6% 95.6%
97.2% 97.2%
2015 2015
0.5% 0.5%
0.0% 0.0%
0.2% 0.2%
0.5% 0.5%
5.6% 5.6%
17.2% 45.7% 17.2% 45.7% 30.4% 30.4%
96.5% 96.5%
98.0% 98.0%
2016 2016
0.2% 0.2%
0.0% 0.0%
0.5% 0.5%
3.2% 3.2%
9.5% 9.5%
18.1% 42.5% 18.1% 42.5% 26.0% 26.0%
95.5% 95.5%
97.2% 97.2%
2017 2017
0.5% 0.5%
0.0% 0.0%
1.2% 1.2%
4.0% 4.0%
9.4% 9.4%
25.8% 43.4% 25.8% 43.4% 15.7% 15.7%
94.7% 94.7%
96.2% 96.2%
2018 2018
0.7% 0.7%
0.5% 0.5%
1.9% 1.9%
4.7% 4.7%
10.1% 22.4% 42.7% 10.1% 22.4% 42.7% 17.0% 17.0%
94.3% 94.3%
96.3% 96.3%
2019 2019
0.0% 0.0%
0.2% 0.2%
0.7% 0.7%
2.1% 2.1%
6.5% 6.5%
16.1% 59.1% 16.1% 59.1% 15.2% 15.2%
96.0% 96.0%
97.4% 97.4%
Source: CRS calculations based on the CRS calculations based on the Statement of Disbursements covering expenditures for 2009-2019. For covering expenditures for 2009-2019. For
2018, nine quarters are available as of the date of this update. For 2019, five quarters are available as of the date 2018, nine quarters are available as of the date of this update. For 2019, five quarters are available as of the date
of this update. Preliminaryof this update. Preliminary data are provided.data are provided.
Notes: Data exclude nonvoting Members, Data exclude nonvoting Members, including the Delegatesincluding the Delegates and Resident Commissioner.and Resident Commissioner. Members who Members who
were not in Congresswere not in Congress for the entirety of the MRA year were also excluded, since spending for any portion may for the entirety of the MRA year were also excluded, since spending for any portion may
not be reflectivenot be reflective of expenditures in an uninterrupted year. This limitation resultedof expenditures in an uninterrupted year. This limitation resulted in the fol owing number of in the fol owing number of
MembersMembers included in the data: for 2009, 429; 2010, 428; 2011, 430; 2012, 426; 2013, 428; 2014, 430; 2015, 431; included in the data: for 2009, 429; 2010, 428; 2011, 430; 2012, 426; 2013, 428; 2014, 430; 2015, 431;
2016, 431; 2017, 426; 2018, 424; and 2019, 428. 2016, 431; 2017, 426; 2018, 424; and 2019, 428.
Congressional Research Service Congressional Research Service

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Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage

Appendix. Examples of Legislation Introduced
Affecting the MRA by Type
Table A-1. Examples of Legislation Introduced to Regulate, Prohibit, Authorize,
Disclose, or Encourage the Use of the MRA for a Particular Purpose
Legislation by Congress
~~116th Congress~~

~~H.Res. 530, Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the amount of the Members’~~
~~Representational Al owance should be increased in response to increasing threats against Members of the~~
~~House;~~

~~H.Res. 756, Moving Our Democracy and Congressional Operations Towards Modernization Resolution;~~

~~H.R. 7251, Proxy Vote Windfal Prohibition Act;~~

~~H.R. 1626, To prevent the enrichment of certain Government officers and employees or their families~~
~~through Federal funds or contracting, and for other purposes; and~~

~~H.R. 577, Prohibiting Perks and Privileges Act.~~
~~115th Congress~~

~~H.Res. 5, Adopting rules for the One Hundred Fifteenth Congress;~~

~~H.Res. 411, Adjusting the amount of the Members’ Representational Al owance;~~

~~H.Res. 642, Prohibiting the use of the Members’ Representational Al owance of a Member of the House of~~
~~Representatives to pay awards, settlements, or other compensation in connection with al egations of sexual~~
~~harassment or sexual misconduct by the Member or the employees of the Member’s office, and for other~~
~~purposes;~~

~~H.Res. 724, Requiring each employing office of the House of Representatives to adopt an anti-harassment and~~
~~anti-discrimination policy for the office's workplace, establishing the Office of Employee Advocacy to provide~~
~~legal assistance and consultation to employees of the House regarding procedures and proceedings under the~~
~~Congressional Accountability Act of 1995, and for other purposes;~~

~~H.R. 839, Public Service Spending Integrity Act;~~

~~H.R. 2951, To al ow Members of Congress~~ 117th Congress  H.Res. 8, Adopting the Rules of the House of Representatives for the One Hundred Seventeenth Congress, and for other purposes (related to Congressional Member Organizations);  H.Res. 56, Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the amount of the Members’ Representational Allowance should be increased in response to increasing threats against Members of the House;  H.Res. 73, Providing the Sergeant-at-Arms with the authority to fine Members, Delegates, or the Resident Commissioner for failure to complete security screening for entrance to the House Chamber, and for other purposes;  H.R. 1078, Prohibiting Perks and Privileges Act; and  H.R. 4471, Improving Veterans Access to Congressional Services Act of 2021. 116th Congress  H.Res. 6, Adopting the Rules of the House of Representatives for the One Hundred Sixteenth Congress, and for other purposes (related to Congressional Member Organizations);  H.Res. 530, Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the amount of the Members’ Representational Allowance should be increased in response to increasing threats against Members of the House;  H.Res. 756, Moving Our Democracy and Congressional Operations Towards Modernization Resolution;  H.R. 577, Prohibiting Perks and Privileges Act;  H.R. 1626, To prevent the enrichment of certain Government officers and employees or their families through Federal funds or contracting, and for other purposes;  H.R. 2370 House Intern Pay Act of 2019; and  H.R. 7251, Proxy Vote Windfall Prohibition Act. 115th Congress  H.Res. 5, Adopting rules for the One Hundred Fifteenth Congress;  H.Res. 411, Adjusting the amount of the Members’ Representational Allowance;  H.Res. 642, Prohibiting the use of the Members’ Representational Allowance of a Member of the House of Representatives to pay awards, settlements, or other compensation in connection with allegations of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct by the Member or the employees of the Member’s office, and for other purposes;  H.Res. 724, Requiring each employing office of the House of Representatives to adopt an anti-harassment and anti-discrimination policy for the office's workplace, establishing the Office of Employee Advocacy to provide legal assistance and consultation to employees of the House regarding procedures and proceedings under the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995, and for other purposes;  H.R. 839, Public Service Spending Integrity Act;  H.R. 2951, To allow Members of Congress to carry a concealed handgun anywhere in the United States, with to carry a concealed handgun anywhere in the United States, with
exceptions; exceptions;
 
H.R. 4497, To amend the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 to prohibit the use of public funds to pay H.R. 4497, To amend the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 to prohibit the use of public funds to pay
~~settlements~~ settlements and awards for workplaceand awards for workplace harassment and discriminationharassment and discrimination ~~claims~~ claims under the Congressional under the Congressional
Accountability Act of 1995 which ariseAccountability Act of 1995 which arise from acts committedfrom acts committed ~~personal y~~ personally by Members of Congress, and for by Members of Congress, and for
other purposes; other purposes;
Congressional Research Service 21 Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage Legislation by Congress  
H.R. 4503, Empowering Victims H.R. 4503, Empowering Victims of Sexual Misconduct Act; of Sexual Misconduct Act;
 
H.R. 4674, Stop Taxpayers Obligations to Perpetrators of Sexual Harassment Act; H.R. 4674, Stop Taxpayers Obligations to Perpetrators of Sexual Harassment Act;
 
H.R. 4822, Congressional H.R. 4822, Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 Reform Act; Accountability Act of 1995 Reform Act;
 
H.R. 6640, Prohibiting Perks H.R. 6640, Prohibiting Perks and Privilegesand Privileges Act; Act;
 
H.R. 6711, House Intern Pay Act of 2018; H.R. 6711, House Intern Pay Act of 2018;
 
H.R. 6956, Intern Opportunity Act; H.R. 6956, Intern Opportunity Act;
 
S. 2236, Congressional S. 2236, Congressional Harassment ReformHarassment Reform Act; and Act; and
 
S. 2872, Congressional S. 2872, Congressional Accountability and HarassmentAccountability and Harassment Reform Act. Reform Act.
114th Congress 114th Congress
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~~Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage~~

~~Legislation by Congress~~
 
H.R. 5993, CAN Act; H.R. 5993, CAN Act;
 
H.R. 1381, Transparency in Government H.R. 1381, Transparency in Government Act of 2015; Act of 2015;
 
H.R. 3077, Giveback Deficit Reduction Act; H.R. 3077, Giveback Deficit Reduction Act;
 
H.R. 3147, Constituent Services H.R. 3147, Constituent Services ~~Disclosure~~ Disclosure Act of 2015; Act of 2015;
 
H.R. 5166, WINGMAN Act; and H.R. 5166, WINGMAN Act; and
 
H.R. 5336, Taxpayer-Funded Travel Transparency Act of 2016. H.R. 5336, Taxpayer-Funded Travel Transparency Act of 2016.
113th Congress 113th Congress
 
H.Res. H.Res. 558, Prohibiting the use of the Members’558, Prohibiting the use of the Members’ Representational Representational ~~Al owance~~ Allowance for the payment of the costs of for the payment of the costs of
first-class airlinefirst-class airline accommodations; accommodations;
 
H.Con.Res. H.Con.Res. 113, Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives113, Amending the Rules of the House of Representatives to require any Member whose to require any Member whose
Members’Members’ Representational Representational ~~Al owance~~ Allowance is used to pay for a flight on a private aircraft to report information on is used to pay for a flight on a private aircraft to report information on
the flight not later than 30 days after the flight; and the flight not later than 30 days after the flight; and
 
H.Amdt. H.Amdt. 642 to H.R. 4487, to prohibit the CAO of the House of Representatives642 to H.R. 4487, to prohibit the CAO of the House of Representatives from making any payments from making any payments
from any Members’from any Members’ Representational Representational ~~Al owance~~ Allowance for the leasing of a vehicle,for the leasing of a vehicle, excluding mobileexcluding mobile district offices district offices
and short-termand short-term vehicle rentals. vehicle rentals.
112th Congress 112th Congress
 
H.R. 3774, Citizen Legislator H.R. 3774, Citizen Legislator Act of 2012; Act of 2012;
 
H.Res. H.Res. 135, Holding Congress Accountable Act of 2011; 135, Holding Congress Accountable Act of 2011;
 
H.Res. H.Res. 482, Prohibiting the use of a Members’482, Prohibiting the use of a Members’ ~~representational al owance~~ representational allowance to obtain advertising on any to obtain advertising on any
internet site other than an official site of the Member involved; internet site other than an official site of the Member involved;
 
H.Res. H.Res. 580, To prohibit the use of the Members’580, To prohibit the use of the Members’ Representational Representational ~~Al owance~~ Allowance for air travel expenses of any for air travel expenses of any
individual unless the individual provides an itemizedindividual unless the individual provides an itemized description of the expenses,description of the expenses, including the specific flight including the specific flight
number, and uses a credit card provided by the House of Representativesnumber, and uses a credit card provided by the House of Representatives to pay for the expenses; andto pay for the expenses; and
 
H.Amdt. H.Amdt. 709 to H.R. 2551, An amendment numbered 10 printed in709 to H.R. 2551, An amendment numbered 10 printed in H.Rept. 112-173 to requireH.Rept. 112-173 to require al all mail mail
funded by the Members’funded by the Members’ ~~representational al owance~~ representational allowance and from funds for official mail for committees and from funds for official mail for committees and and
leadership offices of the House bear the official letterhead of the Member,leadership offices of the House bear the official letterhead of the Member, committee,committee, or office involved. or office involved.
111th Congress 111th Congress
 
H.R. 5151, Congressional H.R. 5151, Congressional Oversight and Spending Transparency (COST) Act of 2010; andOversight and Spending Transparency (COST) Act of 2010; and
 
H.Res. H.Res. 1707, Holding Congress1707, Holding Congress Accountable Resolution of 2010. Accountable Resolution of 2010.
110th Congress 110th Congress
 
H.R. 5598, To establish a program under which employing offices of the House of Representatives H.R. 5598, To establish a program under which employing offices of the House of Representatives may agree may agree
to reimburseto reimburse ~~employees~~ employees for child care expenses, and for other purposes; for child care expenses, and for other purposes;
 
H.Res. H.Res. 1186, Prohibiting the use of funds in a Members’1186, Prohibiting the use of funds in a Members’ Representational Representational ~~Al owance~~ Allowance for the long-termfor the long-term lease lease
of a vehicle; and of a vehicle; and
 
H.R. 6, Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. H.R. 6, Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. Congressional Research Service 22 link to page 27 Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage Legislation by Congress
109th Congress 109th Congress
 
H.Res. H.Res. 879, Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that Members879, Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that Members of the House of of the House of
RepresentativesRepresentatives should use alternative fuel vehiclesshould use alternative fuel vehicles in their professionalin their professional and personaland personal lives;lives; and and
 
H.R. 5338, CLEAR Act. H.R. 5338, CLEAR Act.
108th Congress 108th Congress
 
H.R. 2106, To permit H.R. 2106, To permit ~~Members~~ Members of the House of Representatives to use funds provided in Member’s of the House of Representatives to use funds provided in Member’s
Representational Representational ~~Al owances~~ Allowances to obtain POW/MIA flags and distribute them to constituents. to obtain POW/MIA flags and distribute them to constituents.
105th Congress 105th Congress
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~~link to page 27~~ ~~Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage~~

~~Legislation by Congress~~

~~H.R. 1046, To al ow~~ H.R. 1046, To allow each Member each Member of the House of Representatives to hire one additional employee,of the House of Representatives to hire one additional employee, if the if the
employeeemployee is hired from the welfareis hired from the welfare rol s,rol s, and to provide that, if such employmentand to provide that, if such employment is in the Districtis in the District of of
Columbia, the jurisdictionColumbia, the jurisdiction ~~represented~~ represented by the Memberby the Member may count the employmentmay count the employment toward its welfare toward its welfare
participation rate requirement. participation rate requirement.
Source: CRS examination of CRS examination of ~~LIS~~congress.gov. .
Table A-2. Examples of Legislation Introduced
Regarding the Use of Unexpended Balances
(not including regular appropriations provisions) (not including regular appropriations provisions)
Congress
Bills
116th Congress 116th Congress
H.R. 1790; H.R. 1085 H.R. 1790; H.R. 1085
114th Congress 114th Congress
H.R. 3077 H.R. 3077
113th Congress 113th Congress
H.R. 106; H.R. 496 H.R. 106; H.R. 496
112th Congress 112th Congress
H.R. 121; H.R. 262; H.R. 297 H.R. 121; H.R. 262; H.R. 297
111th Congress 111th Congress
H.R. 2656; H.R. 482 H.R. 2656; H.R. 4825a
110th Congress 110th Congress
H.R. 272 H.R. 272
109th Congress 109th Congress
H.R. 267; H.R. 1273 H.R. 267; H.R. 1273
108th Congress 108th Congress
H.R. 297; H.R. 921; H.R. 2412 H.R. 297; H.R. 921; H.R. 2412
107th Congress 107th Congress
H.R. 47; H.R. 2414 H.R. 47; H.R. 2414
106th Congress 106th Congress
H.R. 431; H.R. 2117; H.R. 2171 H.R. 431; H.R. 2117; H.R. 2171
105th Congress 105th Congress
H.R. 80; H.R. 866 H.R. 80; H.R. 866
104th Congress 104th Congress
H.R. 26; H.R. 376; H.R. 572 H.R. 26; H.R. 376; H.R. 572
Source: CRS examination of CRS examination of ~~LIS~~congress.gov. .
Notes: Unless otherwiseUnless otherwise noted, bil snoted, bil s were introduced and referredwere introduced and referred to committee,to committee, but no further action was but no further action was
taken. taken.
a. H.R. 4825 was agreed to in the House on March 17, 2010. The bil was referreda. H.R. 4825 was agreed to in the House on March 17, 2010. The bil was referred to the Senate Committee to the Senate Committee
on Rules and Administration on Rules and Administration and no further action was taken during the and no further action was taken during the ~~111 th~~111th Congress. Congressional Research Service 23 Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage ~~Congress.~~
Table A-3. Examples of Legislation Introduced to Limit the MRA
Legislation by Congress
112th Congress 112th Congress
 
H.Res. H.Res. 22, Reducing the amount authorized for salaries22, Reducing the amount authorized for salaries and expenses of Member,and expenses of Member, committee,committee, and leadership and leadership
offices in 2011 and 2012; and, offices in 2011 and 2012; and,
 
H.R. 1088, Reduction of Irresponsible H.R. 1088, Reduction of Irresponsible MRA Growth Act. MRA Growth Act.
111th Congress 111th Congress
 
H.R. 3189, Reduction of Irresponsible H.R. 3189, Reduction of Irresponsible MRA Growth Act; and MRA Growth Act; and
 
H.R. 4761, Congressional H.R. 4761, Congressional Belt-Tightening Act of 2010. Belt-Tightening Act of 2010.
Source: CRS examination of CRS examination of ~~LIS~~congress.gov. .
Notes: Unless otherwiseUnless otherwise noted, legislationnoted, legislation was introduced and referredwas introduced and referred to committee,to committee, but no further action but no further action
was taken. was taken.
~~Congressional Research Service~~

23

~~Members’ Representational Allowance: History and Usage~~

~~a. H.Res.~~ a. H.Res. 22 (112th Congress) was agreed to in the House on January 6, 2011.22 (112th Congress) was agreed to in the House on January 6, 2011.

Author Information

Ida A. Brudnick Ida A. Brudnick

Specialist on the Congress Specialist on the Congress

Acknowledgments
William T. Egar, Sarah J. Eckman, Lara E. Chausow, and Aaron Weinerman assisted in data collection for William T. Egar, Sarah J. Eckman, Lara E. Chausow, and Aaron Weinerman assisted in data collection for
various versions of this report. Amber Hope Wilhelm and Jamie Hutchinson assisted in the preparation of various versions of this report. Amber Hope Wilhelm and Jamie Hutchinson assisted in the preparation of
the graphics. the graphics.

Disclaimer
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