California GOP lawmakers seek probe into High-Speed Rail consultant spending

California Republican lawmakers are calling on Attorney General Rob Bonta to investigate the California High-Speed Rail Authority following reports of wasteful consultant reimbursements. In a letter sent Tuesday, Assembly Minority Leader Alexandra Macedo and Senate Minority Leader Brian Jones, along with 17 other legislators, requested a probe into whether these payments violated the California False Claims Act.

A report from the Authority’s Office of the Inspector General found that $543,400 was paid to four consulting firms for unallowable travel expenses between 2024 and 2026. Additionally, approximately $81,000 in travel expenses appeared to violate state regulations. Specific items identified included first-class flights, rideshares to gyms and cigar lounges, and other premium services.

The Inspector General’s report noted a “pattern of Authority noncompliance” and stated that executive team members allegedly ordered these payments despite objections from staff. Lawmakers are seeking to determine if executives violated criminal statutes, including the misappropriation of public funds. A spokesperson for the High-Speed Rail Authority stated the agency is strengthening internal controls and intends to recover any improper costs.