Capitol Complex Reopens to Public Amid Officials, Staff Concerns
It was more than two years ago when the U.S. Capitol Complex closed to the public. As limited tours are scheduled to resume at the Capitol Complex this week, officials remain concerned for the wellness of staff given unaddressed security and health concerns.
Last month, Capitol Police Inspector General (IG) Michael A. Bolton testified before the House Administration Committee that, although security at the Complex has been improved, work remains with regards to training, intelligence, cultural change, and operational planning. Further, retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Russel Honore, the lead investigator on the Capitol Security Review Task Force, stated that Congress had yet to address the probe's recommended safety measures since the report was published on March 5, 2021.
Capitol Complex staff noted unresolved safety issues from last year's insurrection and U.S. Capitol Police staffing shortages, in addition to relaxed mask mandates and COVID-19 protocols.
Carrie Gallagher, President of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 658—the union that represents the Capitol Complex's professional staff of tour guides, visitor assistants, and sales associates—reported her members are concerned about security and attempting to de-escalate situations in a highly partisan political environment.
While Complex staff ultimately received guidance from Capitol Police on what to do if tour participants claim to be part of the siege of the Capitol, or if they are acting suspiciously; However, Complex staff not yet received guidance on how to address the insurrection to the public, given that visitors may hold profoundly varied opinions about the events that day.
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) has extended proxy voting in the House until May 14, 2022. Speaker Pelosi stated she made the decision following consultation with the House Sergeant-at-Arms William J. Walker and Capitol Attending Physician Brian P. Monahan. These officials also laid out the plan for reopening the Complex.
