Send correspondence to their constituents through the public mails free of charge
franking .
Franking Privilege
Members of Congress have the privilege of sending mail postage-free through the Congressional franking privilege. This privilege allows them to substitute their signature in place of a postage stamp. This special privilege is granted to members as a way to facilitate their official correspondence with constituents and other government entities.
The Franklin privilege, which is known now as The Franking privilege and which was introduced in 1775, allows members of Congress to send mail to their constituents at no cost to them. By affixing their name to the corner of an envelope where traditionally a stamp would go (a practice known as franking), Congressional representatives do not have to pay postage for mailings, a great cost savings to them.
The franking privilege (free postage) allows the mailing of official notices and other information without charge. It is used by members of Congress, the President, and his cabinet members. (This is supposedly offset by payments to the USPS by Congress, but this has seldom occurred since the establishment of the independent Postal Service.)
The franking privilege allows members of Congress to send official mail without postage. This helps them communicate with constituents and disseminate information about legislative activities and government services. By removing the cost barrier of postage, the franking privilege enables lawmakers to maintain direct contact with their constituents and fulfill their representational duties effectively.
Certain benefits that go to members of congress. For example "franking" allows them to send mail to their constituents free of charge. They also can not be arrested on petty charges. They benefit from several other perks but you would have to look them up
"Privilege" franking is a personally pen-signed or printed facsimile signature of a person with a "franking privilege" such as certain government officials (especially legislators) and others designated by law or Postal Regulations. This allows the letter or other parcel to be sent without the application of a postage stamp. In the United States this is called the "Congressional frank" which can only be used for "Official Business".
"Privilege" franking is a personally pen-signed or printed facsimile signature of a person with a "franking privilege" such as certain government officials (especially legislators) and others designated by law or Postal Regulations. This allows the letter or other parcel to be sent without the application of a postage stamp. In the United States this is called the "Congressional frank" which can only be used for "Official Business".
That is quite true. Only Congress gets to decide what members of Congress are paid. The only restraint on the greed of Congress-people is that if they are too greedy, the voters may take offense and vote them out of office.
What does the elastic clause allow Congress to do?It allows Congress to create laws or stretch laws which they think are necessary.
Members of Congress enjoy a special immunity known as "Congressional immunity," which protects them from arrest while attending sessions, traveling to and from, and during committee activities, except in cases of treason, felony, or breach of the peace. This privilege allows them to perform their legislative duties without fear of interference or intimidation. Additionally, they cannot be sued for statements made in the course of their legislative activities, ensuring freedom of speech in their official capacities.