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Kirk shooting suspect could face death penalty
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Lawmakers will soon have more money to spend on personal protection after House leaders doubled the amount available through a security pilot program.
The move comes in response to rising safety concerns on Capitol Hill, including the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and a June attack on Minnesota state lawmakers.
House leaders from both parties say the increase is temporary but necessary to meet the current threat level.
Why the security boost was approved
What we know:
The House Committee on Administration announced Wednesday that members will now receive $10,000 a month for personal security through November 21. The pilot program, first launched in July, had allowed lawmakers to spend $5,000 a month.
- The new funding will expire November 21, the same day a Republican-backed stopgap funding bill is set to run out.
- The program supplements $30 million in security funding included in the government spending bill, which some lawmakers said was not enough.
- In addition to monthly personal security funds, lawmakers may spend up to $20,000 on security equipment for their homes.
- The U.S. Capitol Police can also work with state and local law enforcement to reimburse protective services when members are in their districts.
What we don't know:
It remains unclear whether the higher security funding will be extended beyond November 21 or whether Congress plans to make the program permanent.
Charlie Kirk speaks at a public event on the day he was assassinated. His killing has intensified concerns about threats to public figures and led Congress to expand security funding for lawmakers. (Photo by Trent Nelson/The Salt Lake Tribune/Getty Images)
What they're saying:
"I’m pleased the Speaker approved doubling the amount our pilot program allows for Members to hire personal security," House Administration Chairman Bryan Steil, R-Wis., said in a statement. "These additional funds will go a long way in ensuring lawmakers can continue to do their jobs without fear for their families’ safety."
Ranking Member Joe Morelle, D-N.Y., added: "More needs to be done to secure Members, staff and constituents but this is an important and necessary start."
The backstory:
The security pilot program was created in July after concerns over member safety intensified. In June, an attack on Minnesota state lawmakers reignited debate over how to protect members of Congress and their families.
The issue became more urgent following the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk, which lawmakers cited as proof of the heightened risks they face.
What's next:
The expanded funding is set to expire November 21, leaving questions about whether Congress will extend or make permanent the higher level of personal security support.
The Source: This report is based on information from the House Committee on Administration, public statements from Chairman Bryan Steil and Ranking Member Joe Morelle, and reporting from Capitol Hill.