Regarding the per diem thing...I would much rather have it the way it is now. Been there and done that doing it the other way...getting $1.55/hr. Got to wait a month to get it in your check (and all you usually end up with is $200 for the month). You spend way more than that on the credit card etc etc.
I get $50...that's what I spend (most times, even come home with some $$$). It's a beautiful thing. Most places have more economical restaurant choices, and you still save money over the hotel and their discount.
Hope it never changes.