Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
6h ago

House Makes Member Security Program Permanent, Doubles Monthly Reimbursement to $20,000

The decision reflects rising risks to members outside Washington, supported by fresh appropriations for protection.

Police watch over the East Front of the Capitol as Speaker Mike Johnson attends a news conference on Nov. 5. While many members say they feel protected at the heavily fortified Capitol, security while traveling in their districts can be another story.

Overview

  • Effective Dec. 1, members can seek reimbursement of up to $20,000 per month for off‑Hill personal protection under the Sergeant‑at‑Arms program.
  • A mobile duress app also launches Dec. 1 to deliver real‑time alerts and enable discreet distress signaling for members and one immediate family member.
  • The Residential Security Program now carries a $20,000 lifetime cap with expanded eligible upgrades including fences, gates, security doors, safe rooms, and ballistic or forced‑entry‑resistant windows.
  • Members may claim up to $350 per month for home security monitoring and maintenance, while privately hired guards remain barred from the Capitol and its grounds.
  • Fiscal 2026 appropriations increased funding for the Sergeant‑at‑Arms and U.S. Capitol Police, including $30 million to reimburse local agencies assisting with member protection in districts.