If you are a member of the US Congress and you want to take a very expensive trip during a government shut down, you will now need a note from the president or his Chief of Staff.
That notice went out to all 535 members of Congress. This comes on the heels of the president canceling a flight for Nancy Pelosi and a gaggle of Democrats and their spouses.
Nancy Pelosi put the SOTU address on hold over security concerns, but believe it or not, the Democrat’s trip would actually require more security than the president’s speech.
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20503
THE DIRECTOR
January 18,2019
M-19-07
MEMORANDUM FOR THE HEADS OF EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES
FROM: Russell T. Vought
Acting Director
SUBJECT: Executive Branch Support for Congressional Travel During a Government
Shutdown
In light of the current partial government shutdown, the President has asked me to direct
the heads of all executive departments and agencies of the Administration on new policies in
support of Legislative Branch travel.
Under no circumstances during a government shutdown will any government-owned,
rented, leased, or chartered aircraft support any Congressional delegation, without the express
written approval of the White House Chief of Staff. Nor will any funds appropriated to the
Executive Branch be used for any Congressional delegation travel expenses, without his express
written approval. Departments and Agencies shall continue to provide appropriate logistical and
security support for such delegations.
Further guidance following the shutdown will be forthcoming.