A new United Surveys poll shows that over 93 percent of Poles want to reform or scrap the “kilometre allowance” system, which allows MPs to claim travel expenses without receipts.
Public rejection of the current system
A survey conducted by United Surveys for Wirtualna Polska reveals that 57 percent of respondents demand the total abolition of the “kilometre allowance” mechanism, a flat-rate reimbursement for private car use by MPs and senators. Another 36.1 percent support stricter limits and lower rates, while only 5.1 percent believe the current system functions properly.
Mileage costs and the lack of documentation
Previously, MPs could claim up to 3,500 PLN monthly—totaling over 40,000 PLN annually—without providing fuel invoices or documenting specific routes. In the past year, these reimbursements cost taxpayers over 12 million PLN, with independent MP Łukasz Mejza claiming 49,100 PLN, followed closely by Piotr Kandyba and Maria Koc.
New reporting requirements for MPs
Effective the end of last year, Sejm Speaker Włodzimierz Czarzasty reduced the monthly travel reimbursement limit for trips within a member’s district to 1,500 PLN, capping the annual amount at 20,700 PLN. While trips outside the district remain uncapped, they must now be logged with specific dates and routes for review by the Chancellery of the Sejm, though MPs are still not required to submit receipts or invoices.
