President Signs Brady Police Merger Bill

H.R. 3690 creates coordinated police force while ensuring job and salary security

Washington, DC (January 9, 2008): H.R. 3690 – The U.S. Capitol Police and Library of Congress Police Merger Implementation Act of 2007 – was signed into law by President G.W. Bush on Tuesday, January 7th, 2008.  The new law creates a coordinated safety and security force to effectively protect Members, staff and the millions of annual visitors to the Capitol.

Under H.R. 3690, all Library police employees will move to the Capitol Police force by September 30, 2009.  Library officers who meet age and service requirements, and who complete U.S. Capitol Police training, will continue as officers.  Library officers who do not meet those requirements will be offered U.S. Capitol Police civilian jobs. Key provisions of the new law ensure that no current employees of either force will lose a job or suffer a reduction in pay, rank, accrued leave or other benefits, as a result of the merger.

“After more than four years, we have achieved a plan that is overwhelmingly supported by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Library of Congress, as well as both Chambers of Congress and the President” said Brady. “Since 2003, many people in both agencies have devoted countless hours to this task.  I am pleased that in less than a year of Democrats serving in the majority, we have been able to get the job done,” Brady added.

The new law shifts jurisdiction over Library buildings in Washington to the Capitol Police.  The Librarian of Congress will retain responsibility for design of security systems and will issue regulations to protect Library collections and maintain order.  The newly signed law also consolidates representation of officers under the U.S. Capitol Police’s FOP.

“The culmination of this merger represents a tremendous accomplishment for all involved,” said Brady. “We’ve ensured employment continuity and the creation of a merged force that will make Capitol Hill more secure for the millions who visit every year and the thousands privileged to work here every day.”

For more information, Contact: Kyle Anderson – Press Director
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