Congressman Tim Ryan Lauds the Passage of the House Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill

Press Release

Washington, DC -- Today, Congressman Tim Ryan, Chair of the House Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee, lauds the passage of H.R. 4346, the Legislative Branch funding bill, which focuses on protecting our democracy by improving training and wellness support for Capitol Police, strengthening Legislative Branch capacity, and growing opportunity for those who wish to work on Capitol Hill.

"In a year full of trauma and hurt, with the apex being the Insurrection on January 6th, there is no question that the House of Representatives must make the changes necessary to continue serving the American people.This legislation makes strides to modernize the House of Representatives and ensures we have the resources necessary to efficiently and effectively serve our constituents. I am proud that this legislation includes a $134 million increase for Members to hire and retain the staff needed to serve our constituents. I am also pleased that we are helping ensure our workforce reflects the diversity of our nation, including by increasing funding for paid internships and allowing DACA recipients to work in the halls of Congress," said Legislative Branch Appropriations Subcommittee Chairman Tim Ryan (D-OH-13). "I am pleased that my legislation increases transparency, diversity and leadership training for the United States Capitol Police and provides additional funding for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Office of Workplace Rights, and the Wounded Warrior Program."

"This bill honors the sacrifices of the brave women and men in uniform who risked their lives defending this institution, shockingly on display at the first hearing of the January 6 Select Committee. It gives these heroes the funding, the resources, and the training they need to ensure what happened on January 6 never happens again, and it also says: we respect what you do," Appropriations Committee Chair Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) said. "Together, the initiatives in this bill will not only protect the Congress and our democracy -- they also strengthen and sustain it. I appreciate the leadership of Chairman Ryan and all our Appropriators in crafting this legislation and look forward to it being enacted."

Background:

The bill supports the Capitol Police and honors their commitment with funding to improve training, recruitment, retention, readiness, and wellness support. It also promotes transparency, diversity, and leadership training.

The bill protects our democracy by bolstering the safety and security of all who work in and visit the United States Capitol.

The bill strengthens Congressional capacity by providing increased funding to allow Congressional offices and support agencies to recruit and retain a skilled, diverse workforce.

Finally, the bill grows opportunity by providing $18.2 million in funding for paid internships on Capitol Hill and permitting Dreamers to work in the Legislative Branch.

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