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Capitol Police: Faster Emergency Assistance Authority

New law allows the Chief of the Capitol Police to independently request assistance from the DC National Guard or federal agencies in emergencies, without prior board approval. This aims to enable quicker responses to threats and ensure safety within Capitol buildings. Citizens may feel a greater sense of security in the Capitol area due to more efficient crisis response.
Key points
The Chief of the Capitol Police can now unilaterally request assistance from the National Guard or other federal agencies in emergencies.
This change aims to speed up responses to threats and prevent disruptions of public order in the Capitol area.
The Capitol Police Board can still revoke requested assistance after consulting with Senate and House leadership.
Joint oversight hearings regarding the Capitol Police Board are now mandated, increasing accountability.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Became Law
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_3377
Sponsor: Sen. Klobuchar, Amy [D-MN]
Process start date: 2021-12-13
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Capitol Police Emergency Assistance Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_3377.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-12-13.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • The Chief of the Capitol Police can now unilaterally request assistance from the National Guard or other federal agencies in emergencies.
  • This change aims to speed up responses to threats and prevent disruptions of public order in the Capitol area.
  • The Capitol Police Board can still revoke requested assistance after consulting with Senate and House leadership.
  • Joint oversight hearings regarding the Capitol Police Board are now mandated, increasing accountability.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Became Law.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Klobuchar, Amy [D-MN].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Became Public Law No: 117-77.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Security Courts and Law