California High-Speed Rail Consultants Charged Thousands for Flights, Nightclub Trips
Summary
A state report found that California’s High-Speed Rail Authority paid nearly $593,000 for questionable travel costs by consultants, including expensive flights and rides with unclear state-related reasons. The Authority said it will improve its rules, recover improper costs, and work with the watchdog to fix problems.Key Facts
- The California High-Speed Rail Authority spent over $2 million on travel for contractors in 2024-25 and 2025-26 fiscal years.
- Inspectors reviewed $1.15 million in travel expenses and found about 60% lacked proper approval before the trips.
- The questionable $592,900 included $81,000 breaking state travel rules and $543,400 violating contract terms.
- Some consultants claimed first-class flights, a private plane, and luxury rides such as expensive Uber trips for very short distances.
- The report noted trips to places like nightclubs, bars, restaurants, and a cigar lounge without any clear state business purpose.
- One legal consultant had 30 travel claims with only three pre-approved; the Authority paid for travel time as well.
- Approximately $118,000 was paid for international travel that was not allowed under a specific contractor’s rules.
- California voters initially approved the rail project in 2008 with an estimated cost of $33 billion; the 2026 plan projects $126 billion for its first phase.
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