The Journal used LegiStorm's data to show that since 2005, when an ethics scandal brought about new rules limiting congressional trips paid for by outside organizations, lawmaker participation in such trips has fallen by 70%, to a cost of $2.9 million in 2008. Over the same time period, though, publicly funded trips - known as congressional delegations, or codels - has risen by 70%, to a cost of $13 million in 2008. Unlike the privately financed travel, the disclosed cost of taxpayer-sponsored trips does not include airfare, which usually takes place on passenger jets provided by the military.

Like many of the privately financed trips now on the wane, codels often provide a mix of business and pleasure. The Journal cites as an example a trip to Scotland by 12 members of Congress. In Edinburgh to discuss security issues, the lawmakers found time to do some sightseeing, go shopping and dine at well-known restaurants. Eleven of the twelve lawmakers on the trip then returned home two days before the conclusion of the conference they were in Scotland to attend.