Petition to Restrict Capitol Exterior
Currently in the trespassing law it states " Entering into the Capitol Building without proper authorization from the Department of Homeland Security." Which means DHS cannot restrict the exterior of the capitol. This is a problem and has proved to be a problem multiple times such as if there is an in game event at the capitol. Not being able to restrict even the stairs is a problem as there is no space in between the people inside and a potential shooter trying to rush in. Whereas if the exterior was restricted then searches could be done there since the metal detectors don’t work. A bill to fix this was proposed to the house but failed 0-6-0 (An Amendment to Protect the Capitol (R)) . The reason they failed it was due to protests however people would still be able to protest at the sidewalk next to the bollards. Another reason restricting the exterior would help is if a protest turns into a riot and they decide to storm the Capitol which has happened before. DHS would be able to stop most if not all of the rioters from getting inside the building and causing damage. However right now it would be extremely hard to stop everyone from entering and causing damage or hurting other people. This wouldn’t restrict citizen’s right to protest because they can still protest at the Capitol building. I also think that some people think this means civilian wouldn’t be able to enter Capitol if it’s passed however that’s false, per DHS clearance to Capitol, civilians (CL1) may enter if not armed and if Capitol isn’t closed to the public which only happens during a lockdown for the most part.