Lawmakers receive reimbursements for expenses under new policy.

New guidelines for Congress will reimburse lawmakers for rent, food, and other expenses they incur while in Washington, DC, effectively giving members a pay hike. Lawmakers will be able to apply for cost reimbursements dated back to January 3, the beginning of the 118th session. Participation in the reimbursement plan is optional, but members who use it will see those disclosures become public record. The policy update released on Friday is intended to bring clarity to guidelines decided under the previous Congress, which was led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.