Pelosi Statement on Passage of Rule Change Mandating Fines for Refusing to Follow New Chamber Security Screening Protocols
February 2, 2021
Contact: Speaker's Press Office,
202-226-7616
Washington, D.C. – Speaker Nancy Pelosi issued this statement after the House voted to pass a rule change mandating fines for Members who refuse to follow new screening protocols for the House Chamber:
"Four weeks ago tomorrow, a deadly insurrection was waged against the U.S. Capitol and those who work and serve in this temple of our Democracy, in which several people died and nearly 140 police officers were seriously injured.
"We all have a solemn responsibility to honor the service and sacrifice of the Capitol Police for the valor that they showed that harrowing day. Yet, just days after the assault, many House Republicans began disrespecting our heroes by refusing to adhere to basic precautions keeping members of our Congressional community safe – including by dodging metal detectors, physically pushing past police, and even attempting to bring firearms into the chamber.
"It is beyond comprehension why any Member would refuse to adhere to these simple, commonsense steps to keep this body safe. It is sad that we have been forced to move forward with a rule change imposing fines on those who refuse to abide by these protections, but the People's House must and will be safe, so that we can honor our responsibility to do the People's work."
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