United States Capitol Police Reserve Fund Act of 2026

H.R. 7369 would establish a United States Capitol Police Reserve Fund designed to ensure Capitol Police officers and staff continue receiving pay and essential resources during a lapse in federal appropriations, such as a government shutdown. The bill would appropriate $50 million to this reserve fund, which could only be used to cover employee salaries and necessary operating expenses during a shutdown. The fund would be strictly controlled and could not be used during normal government operations.

The bill includes several safeguards and accountability measures. Use of the fund would require approval from the Capitol Police Board, and any unused funds remaining in the reserve by December 31, 2026, would be returned to the U.S. Treasury. The Capitol Police Chief would be required to submit a detailed report to Congress explaining how the funds were used. These provisions are intended to ensure the reserve fund operates as a temporary emergency measure rather than a permanent or discretionary spending mechanism.

If enacted, this bill would provide a financial backstop to ensure Capitol Police operations continue uninterrupted during future government shutdowns, preventing potential gaps in security and ensuring officers receive their paychecks. The bill is currently under consideration by the House Committee on House Administration and has not yet been voted on by the full House.