NM Bill Would Ban Double-Dipping For Expenses

New Mexico legislators wouldn't be allowed to get reimbursements for the same expense from more than one source under a bill filed in reaction to a travel scandal involving a now-former lawmaker.

Republican Rep. Nate Gentry of Albuquerque filed his bill in response to expense double-dipping by former Democratic Rep. Ray Begaye of Shiprock.

Attorney General Gary King's office concluded that Begaye on five occasions was reimbursed for out-of-town trips by both the state and the National Conference of State Legislatures.

King's office said Begaye didn't violate state law.

However, the office urged lawmakers to change state law so that lawmakers' travel expenses can be reimbursed by only one entity.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.