California’s High-Speed Rail Authority Wasted Money on First-Class Flights, Trips to Nightclub, Report Finds

California’s high-speed rail authority wasted money on first-class flights, trips to nightclub, report finds

The train has come under immense scrutiny in recent years from the federal government.

IG Report: High-Speed Rail paid out more than $1 million for travel

(The Center Square) – The High-Speed Rail Authority paid more than $1 million in unjustified travel expenses for contractors, including for private jets, premium tickets and cigar lounges, according to a report.

California High-Speed Rail Audit Finds Nearly $600K In Improper Travel Expenses

California Governor Gavin Newsom gives remarks at the Center for American Progress Ideas Conference at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 19, 2026. REUTERS/Annabelle Gordon(Sacramento, California) – A state watchdog says California’s High-Speed Rail Authority

California rail authority reimbursed consultants for gym trips, premium flights report finds

A new state watchdog report found the California High-Speed Rail Authority paid thousands to consultants for travel expenses that violated state rules or contract terms, including premium flights and rides to gyms, a nightclub, an escape room, and other destinations. The Office of the Inspector General investigated allegations that the authority did not comply with [...]

California high-speed rail consultants billed taxpayers for a private plane, tiki bars and cigar lounges

A new California inspector general report reveals high-speed rail consultants billed taxpayers for luxury trips, nightclub visits and private aircraft travel.

High-speed rail authority wasted money on first-class flights, trips to nightclub, report finds

California's high-speed rail authority is under new scrutiny after an inspector general found the agency approved more than half a million dollars in wasteful and unexplained travel spending.