Davis proposes GOP-led bill creating national commission to investigate Capitol attacks

U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis (R-IL) on Jan. 12 sponsored legislation that would establish the National Commission on the Domestic Terrorist Attack Upon the U.S. Capitol.

“On Jan. 6, 2021, the U.S. Capitol was attacked and it’s imperative we fully investigate how it happened and the steps needed to ensure it never happens again,” said Rep. Davis, ranking member of the U.S. House Administration Committee. “It’s critical this investigation remains bipartisan, but with full force.”

If enacted, the GOP-led H.R. 275, which Rep. Davis introduced alongside seven original cosponsors, including U.S. Reps. John Katko (R-NY) and Steve Stivers (R-OH), would create a commission consisting of 10 members — five each of Republicans and Democrats — to examine and report on the facts and causes related to the insurrection at the Capitol building. One of the commission members would be appointed by the president to serve as chairman of the commission, according to the text of the bill.

“All members of the Commission shall be appointed on or after January 21, 2021, and on or before February 15, 2021,” according to H.R. 275. “The Commission shall meet and begin the initial operation… as soon as practicable.” 

The bill also would authorize the commission to hold hearings and issue subpoenas, similar to the efforts of the 9/11 Commission established by Congress to investigate the 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, according to Rep. Davis’ office.

“This commission would evaluate the federal government’s response through hearings and subpoenaing witnesses to get the answers Americans deserve,” the congressman said.

H.R. 275 has been referred to the U.S. House Homeland Security Committee for consideration.