House Approves FY2022 Budget for the Legislative Branch, Funding Support for the Capitol Police, Congressional Efficiency and Transparency, and Accessibility to Congressional Internships
Washington, DC–– Today, Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) voted for FY2022's Legislative Branch Appropriations package, which covers funding for discretionary appropriations for the House of Representatives, including additional funding for the Capitol Police.
"This year has shown us just how critical investment in our Capitol complex is," said Rep. Sherrill. "In addition to providing Congress the means to effectively do the people's business, this appropriations package increases funding for our Capitol Police, providing them the resources they need to protect the Capitol, funds to increase staffing, and resources for mental health and wellness of their officers. In the wake of January 6th, we owe Capitol Police our lives and an overwhelming debt of gratitude for their service. I'm incredibly proud to support this legislation and provide the Capitol Police with the resources they need after they've endured so much on our behalf."
In addition to a number of other key priorities, this appropriations package includes the following provisions:
Capitol Police: Provides an $88.4 million funding increase for the Capitol Police. This funding will allow for the hiring of up to 2,112 sworn officers and 450 civilian members of the Capitol Police.
The Committee report includes several significant measures to help bring more transparency, diversity, and leadership training, and standardize vetting and routinely review staff for employment suitability with the Capitol Police.
Funding to ensure Congressional interns are paid as employees in Member and Leadership offices or for House committees.
This allowance helps extend internship opportunities to people who may not be financially able to take an unpaid position.
House Modernization Initiatives Account: Includes measures to make Congress more effective, efficient, and transparent on behalf of the American people.
Wounded Warrior Program/Gold Star Families: Funds the Wounded Warrior Congressional Fellowship, which gives Wounded Warriors the opportunity to work on Capitol Hill.
Dreamers: Includes language permitting the Legislative Branch agencies it funds to employ Dreamers — residents of the United States brought to this country as children without proper immigration status — who hold employment authorization under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
Original source can be found here.
