Brady Introduces Capitol Visitor Center Operations Bill

(January 29, 2008) Washington, DC: Committee on House Administration Chairman Robert A. Brady, today introduced legislation that provides for the management and administration of the new Capitol Visitor Center (CVC). Scheduled for completion in late 2008, the CVC will serve as the primary gateway for visitors to the United States Capitol complex. Once completed and in full operation, the CVC will employ more than 300 staff and will host more than 3 million visitors annually.

“The completion of the CVC represents the culmination of years of work and substantial financial investment,” said Brady. “This legislation will ensure that the facility is operated in a safe, efficient and professional manner, offering a positive experience for millions of Capitol visitors.”

Brady’s bill outlines the management structure for the new facility and officially designates the Chief Executive Officer of Visitor Services, Ms. Terrie Rouse, as the CEO of the Capitol Visitor Center.

The legislation outlines the relationship between the CVC and the Capitol Police on issues of security and visitor safety, and provides for operation of the CVC gift shop and food service operations, as well as the transferring of the Capitol Guide Service into the CVC. The Capitol Guide Service provides official tours for visitors to the Capitol complex.

Brady’s legislation also elevates the existing Special Services Office, which now lies within the Guide Service, to become the Office of Congressional Accessibility Services (OCAS). This office will provide and coordinate accessibility services for individuals with disabilities, including Capitol Complex visitors, Members of Congress and House and Senate employees. The OCAS will provide information regarding accessibility for individuals with disabilities, as well as related training and staff development, to Members of Congress and House and Senate employees.

“While it is vital that all visitors be able to enjoy the CVC facility, regardless of disability status, this measure has far broader impact than simply providing for accessibility in the CVC” said Brady. “The Office of Congressional Accessibility Services will ensure that we implement appropriate accessibility measures throughout the entire Capitol complex.”

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