WASHINGTON – Yesterday, the House Appropriations Committee met to consider the Fiscal Year 2027 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act. This bill includes funding for U.S. Capitol operations, the Library of Congress, and the John C. Stennis Center for Public Service Leadership. Congressman David Valadao (CA-22), Chairman of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee, released the following statement on the bill’s passage out of full committee markup.

“After months of hard work preparing the Fiscal Year 2027 bill as Chairman of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee, I’m proud to see it advance out of full committee markup,” said Congressman Valadao. “This bill ensures Congress has the resources necessary to effectively serve the American people while also reducing unnecessary spending and refocusing our priorities on core responsibilities. Importantly, it strengthens funding for the Capitol Police to ensure the historic Capitol complex remains safe and accessible for Members and staff, as well as students, families, and visitors from across the country. I’m grateful to Chairman Cole for his leadership and guidance throughout this process, and I appreciate the hard work of my subcommittee colleagues. I look forward to building on this momentum as the bill moves through the legislative process.”

Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole said, "Our foremost duty is to our constituents – and the FY27 Legislative Branch bill equips the People’s House to uphold the trust placed in it through responsible governance and effective oversight. It supports key functions of our democracy, strengthens office operations and constituent services, and reinforces efficiency and accountability throughout government. With the summer season ahead, we are further reminded of the importance of the safety and security of the Capitol grounds for visitors, staff, and members alike – and this measure ensures the United States Capitol Police are resourced and prepared. Chairman Valadao crafted legislation that positions Congress to serve the nation, remain responsive to constituents, and steward taxpayer dollars wisely. I’m proud to have our seventh measure advanced out of the full committee."

Legislative Branch Subcommittee Chairman David Valadao began the markup with remarks on the bill. Watch his full remarks here or read as prepared below:

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. First, I would like to express my appreciation to you and your leadership staff for their support in keeping the appropriations process moving in a timely manner again this year. Returning the process to regular order has enabled our agencies to plan their budgets and priorities with certainty, making their operations more efficient and effective. Thank you for all of your efforts and the excellent results. I would also like to express my appreciation to Ranking Member DeLauro and Ranking Member Espaillat for their partnership and commitment to moving these bills. 

Today I am pleased to introduce the Fiscal Year 2027 Legislative Branch Appropriation bill for the committee’s consideration.

I would like to remind our Members that this bill marks another step of many, towards providing final FY27 funding for the offices and agencies within the legislative branch of our government.  As we worked within our allocation, we did our best to respond to the priorities of the Members in executing their constitutional duties, while supporting the operations of the Congress, the Capitol Complex, and the people who serve it. 

This bill provides $5.4 billion for House and Joint Items; in keeping with longstanding tradition, we leave Senate items for the other body’s consideration.

I want to take a moment to note a few priorities for Members on both sides of the aisle. First, we maintain the new Member security program, increase funding for the U.S. Capitol Police, fully fund the request from the Office of Legislative Counsel, increase funding for the Green and Gold Congressional Aide Program, and the Members’ Representational Allowance to account for rising costs across the nation and to assist with workforce retention and institutional knowledge. 

This bill also supports the addition of new primary services for female Members of Congress through the Office of the Attending Physician, continues the ongoing investment for the critical renovation of the Rayburn House Office Building, and provides for the employees and programs of the Library of Congress and the essential services they provide the Congress.

I’d like to thank all Members for their requests, especially our Subcommittee Members for their contributions and engagement, and the Subcommittee staff. These efforts have resulted in this Fiscal Year 2027 Legislative Branch bill. I look forward to continuing to work together in the days ahead as we move the bill through the legislative process both here in the House and in final negotiations with the Senate. 

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