H.R.1749 - Safe Storage Lockers for House Office Buildings Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1749, the "Safe Storage Lockers for House Office Buildings Act," aims to permit House of Representatives employees authorized to possess weapons in the District of Columbia to bring them into House Office Buildings for secure storage. The bill mandates the Capitol Police Board to install and operate storage lockers at external pedestrian entrances of House office buildings within 180 days of enactment. This would allow employees to store self-defense sprays, stun guns, and firearms while inside the buildings.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would allow House employees to store weapons in lockers while at work. This could potentially increase the sense of security for some employees who commute through areas with high crime rates. The Capitol Police Board would be responsible for managing the lockers and creating relevant regulations.
Potential Benefits
- Increased sense of security for House employees who commute through high-crime areas.
- Provides a legal mechanism for employees to possess self-defense weapons while complying with federal building restrictions.
- Could potentially deter crime against House employees.
- Clear guidelines and regulations for weapon storage within House office buildings.
- Addresses concerns raised by employees who are authorized to carry weapons under D.C. law but are restricted from doing so in federal buildings.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for misuse of storage lockers or weapons.
- Increased security burden on the Capitol Police.
- May create a perception of increased danger or heightened security concerns.
- Logistical challenges in managing and maintaining the storage lockers.
- Possible legal challenges or ambiguities regarding the implementation of the Act.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill touches upon the Second Amendment right to bear arms, but it does not directly infringe upon it. It seeks to balance this right with the need for security in federal buildings. The bill also aligns with Congress's power to regulate its own affairs and provide for the safety of its employees, as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to make all laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).