H.CON.RES. 73 — Authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for the National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service and the National Honor Guard and Pipe Band Exhibition
Executive Summary
This concurrent resolution authorizes the use of the Capitol Grounds for two significant public events in 2026: the 45th Annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Service and the National Honor Guard and Pipe Band Exhibition. Sponsored by the National Fraternal Order of Police and its auxiliary, these events aim to honor fallen law enforcement officers and showcase their traditions. The resolution outlines specific dates, conditions for public access, and assigns full financial responsibility to the sponsoring organizations, ensuring minimal cost to taxpayers while maintaining order on the Capitol Grounds.
Arguments For
- Provides a crucial platform to honor fallen law enforcement officers, boosting morale and public appreciation for their sacrifices.
- Showcases the professionalism and traditions of law enforcement through the Honor Guard and Pipe Band Exhibition, fostering positive community relations.
- Facilitates public engagement with the Capitol Grounds for a commemorative purpose, enhancing civic participation.
- Minimizes taxpayer burden as the sponsoring organizations bear all financial responsibilities and liabilities for the events.
Likely Supporters
Arguments Against
- Despite provisions, any large public event on the Capitol Grounds carries inherent security risks and logistical complexities for the Capitol Police.
- Potential for minor disruptions to congressional operations or public access to the Capitol during event setup, execution, and takedown, even with mitigation efforts.
- While sponsors cover direct costs, there are indirect costs associated with Capitol Police oversight and facility management that are not explicitly reimbursed.
- The use of prime public space for specific events could be seen as an opportunity cost, potentially displacing other public or legislative activities.
Likely Opponents
📋 Key Provisions
- Authorizes the National Fraternal Order of Police and its auxiliary to sponsor the 45th Annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Service on the Capitol Grounds.
- Sets the primary date for the Memorial Service as May 15, 2026, with preparation beginning May 7, 2026, and takedown completed by May 17, 2026.
- Authorizes the National Fraternal Order of Police and its auxiliary to sponsor the National Honor Guard and Pipe Band Exhibition on the Capitol Grounds.
- Sets the primary date for the Exhibition as May 14, 2026.
- Stipulates that both events must be free of admission charge, open to the public, and arranged not to interfere with the needs of Congress.
- Requires the sponsors to assume full responsibility for all expenses and liabilities associated with the events.
- Authorizes the erection of necessary structures (stage, sound amplification) subject to the Architect of the Capitol's approval.
- Mandates the Capitol Police Board to enforce restrictions on the Capitol Grounds, including those related to sales, advertisements, and solicitations.
search
Verification Guide
BETA
expand_more
Don't trust AI? Don't worry, neither do I. Verify the claims yourself.
The Memorial Service is scheduled for May 15, 2026.
"Service shall be held on May 15, 2026"
The Honor Guard and Pipe Band Exhibition is scheduled for May 14, 2026.
"Exhibition shall be held on May 14, 2026"
The events must be free of admission charge and open to the public.
"free of admission charge and open to the public"
Sponsors are fully responsible for all expenses and liabilities.
"assume full responsibility for all expenses and liabilities"
The Capitol Police Board will enforce restrictions on the Capitol Grounds.
"Capitol Police Board shall provide for enforce-"