Becky,

I've run into this and have agreed to pay tolls but refused to pay the base
cost of operating the mobile phone.  Forget buying one!  I would think they
would have to have a VERY GOOD justification.  Put the onus on the
investigator - if they provide a good justification you will be happy to write
to the agency for prior approval!

Good luck!

Ruth Tallman
Office of Research and Sponsored Programs
Lehigh University
Phone: 610-758-3024