U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-IL) on July 9 introduced legislation that would improve transparency and accountability around the functions of the U.S. Capitol Police, the federal law enforcement agency charged with protecting members of Congress in Washington, D.C., and around the nation.
“As we look at proposals to improve law enforcement across the country, I believe there are changes we can implement to strengthen the U.S. Capitol Police force as well,” said Rep. Davis, ranking member of the U.S. House Administration Committee.
Rep. Davis sponsored the Capitol Police Advancement Act of 2020, H.R. 7513, with original cosponsor U.S. Rep. Mark Walker (R-NC), which would bring the Capitol Police in line with other federal law enforcement agencies by improving accountability through new reporting requirements, such as requiring the department to make public a semi-annual report of its activities, according to the text of the bill.
If enacted, the legislation also would provide the Capitol Police Inspector General with more budgetary independence, according to a bill summary provided by the congressman’s office, and would ensure that bad police officers do not remain on the force after being terminated by the Capitol Police Board.
“The Capitol Police Advancement Act increases public transparency and helps ensure bad actors do not remain on the force,” Rep. Davis said. “It’s important we preserve the integrity of the Capitol Police for the many great men and women who work each day to protect members, staff and visitors.”
H.R. 7513 has been referred for consideration to the House Administration Committee.