DoD Per Diem Changes Set to Take Effect

DoD, which sets certain travel policies for its civilian employees separate from the policies applying to other agencies under GSA rules, is reducing reimbursement rates effective Saturday (November 1) for temporary duty travel lasting more than 30 days in one location. For travel of 31 to 180 days, DoD will pay only 75 percent of the location’s per diem rate (lodgings plus meals and incidental expenses) and for those longer than 180 days, only 55 percent. Any stays longer than 180 days must be approved by a senior level. DoD argues that a period longer than 30 days is considered an extended stay in the travel industry, with longer-term housing options that cost less on a per-day basis than hotel/motel stays a more appropriate choice. Some members of Congress and several unions are asking Congress to block the change.DoD already has changed policy regarding several expenses for travelers such as transportation tips and laundry fees, making them no longer separately reimbursable but rather considering them part of the daily meals and incidental expenses allowance.