Ex-NFLPA Leader Under Fire for Controversial Strip Club Expenses: What You Need to Know

Lloyd Howell Jr., the former leader of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), recently stepped down after financial misconduct allegations surfaced. An independent investigation revealed that he had charged the union for visits to strip clubs, including an outrageous $738 car service from the airport to one of these venues.

The trouble began when a finance worker noticed the significant charges on Howell’s expense report. Upon investigating, they discovered that one of the addresses linked to a hefty car service bill was for Tootsie’s Cabaret, touted as the world’s largest strip club. This raised questions about Howell’s spending, prompting union officials to review his activities more closely.

Howell didn’t just visit one club; receipts showed he took another outing to the Magic City strip club during the NFLPA Summit. This outing racked up a staggering $2,426 in charges, raising flags over the appropriateness of using union funds for such activities. Howell cited these gatherings as “Player Engagement Events,” aiming to foster relationships within the union.

Renowned labor attorney Bob Stropp told ESPN, “That’s pretty horrible. I don’t know how you get around that.” His comments highlight the scrutiny Howell’s actions may attract under federal labor laws designed to protect union members.

Howell was elected in 2024, earning $3.6 million last year, and lived in luxury in Miami. This isn’t the first time he’s faced scrutiny for his spending; past employers had raised concerns about similar behaviors during business trips.

In his resignation, Howell stated that his continued presence may distract from the valuable work the NFLPA does for its members. His sudden departure caught many off guard, as just hours earlier, some members of the executive committee were trying to persuade him to stay.

With Howell’s resignation, the NFLPA finds itself at a crossroads. The union’s integrity is crucial, especially as investigations continue into Howell’s financial dealings and past controversies. It remains to be seen how this will impact the players and the organization moving forward.

For more insight into labor law concerning union finances, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s guidelines here.

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