We Have To Crack Down on Outrageous Credit Card Charges

It’s time we put a stop to wasteful, abusive, and fraudulent use of government credit cards. The legislation I introduced would require all federal agencies to establish safeguards and internal controls for government charge card programs as well as establish penalties for violations. Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) introduced companion legislation in the House.

We have found shockingly flagrant abuses like $2,443 in taxpayers’ money going to pay for a down payment on a sapphire ring and $1,935 in taxpayers’ money used to purchase two LA-Z-Boy reclining rocking chairs. Government travel cards, which are only to be used for legitimate travel-related expenditures, have been used to pay for everything from women’s lingerie to tickets to the Phantom of the Opera to a seven night Alaskan cruise for two.

Every time we open these GAO reports we find more outrageous spending. Internet gambling and a Yankees baseball game don’t seem to be appropriate uses of tax payer money. The federal agencies don’t seem to be stepping up, so this legislation helps put some common sense controls on these credit cards.