Committee Approves FY27 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act
Washington, D.C. – Today, the House Appropriations Committee met to consider the Fiscal Year 2027 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act. The measure was approved by the Committee with a vote of 34 to 28.
Legislative Branch Subcommittee Chairman David Valadao (R-CA) said, "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. 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."
Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) 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."
Subcommittee Chairman Valadao's opening remarks are available here.
Chairman Cole's opening remarks are available here.
Fiscal Year 2027 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act
The Legislative Branch Appropriations Act provides a total discretionary allocation of $7.3 billion, which is $42.5 million above the Fiscal Year 2026 enacted level and more than $1.2 billion below the Fiscal Year 2027 request.
In summary, the measure maintains funding for operations of the legislative branch, supporting key functions of democracy, constituent services, and safety of the Capitol complex for visitors, staff, and lawmakers. Given the rise in political violence, the legislation also prioritizes the protection and security of Members of Congress. It upholds core governance missions while continuing to fund the legislative branch in a fiscally responsible manner.
Key Takeaways
Enables Congress to better serve the American people by:
- Maintaining investments to ensure that Congress can continue its work to support President Trump’s legislative priorities.
- Prioritizing service to the American people by ensuring Member offices have increased resources to retain experienced staff, preserve institutional knowledge, and deliver responsive representation while upholding constitutional duties.
- Streamlining research and support agencies to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
- Increasing funding for Capitol Police officers and the civilians who support their efforts.
- Continuing funding for Member security programs provided by the House Sergeant at Arms.
Bolsters U.S. national security by:
- Prohibiting the purchase of technology and telecommunications equipment from Communist China and other adversaries.
- Barring the purchase of drones manufactured in the People’s Republic of China or by a business affiliated with Communist China, except as allowed for national security purposes.
Safeguards American taxpayer dollars by:
- Reducing House and Joint Items from the FY26 enacted total.
- Requiring unspent funds from the Members’ Representational Allowances (MRA) to be used for debt and deficit reduction.
- Restricting incentive or award payments to contractors for work on contracts or programs behind schedule or over budget.
- Prohibiting the use of funds for the maintenance or care of private vehicles.
- Providing for the responsible upkeep and maintenance of the U.S. Capitol complex, including investments in the renewal of the Rayburn House Office Building.
- Maintaining restrictions on the use of funds for computer networks that do not block pornography.
A summary of the bill is available here.
During the markup, Committee Republicans also stood with the America First agenda and rejected Democrat amendments that would have:
- Undermined OMB’s ability to oversee and redirect unobligated balances responsibly.
- Increased government spending with no offset.
- Targeted funding unrelated to the legislative branch’s jurisdiction.
- Diminished congressional authority.
- Pushed pro-union policies on government workers.
Adopted Amendments
- Valadao #1 (Manager’s Amendment) – Makes technical, bipartisan changes to the bill and report.
- The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
- Maloy #1 – Reinforces support and accountability to combat sexual harassment.
- The amendment was adopted by 34 to 26.
- Torres #3 – Requires in-person workplace rights training for members under review by the House Ethics Committee.
- The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
- Perez #1 – Supports congressional showcase of handcrafted works from constituents.
- The amendment was adopted by voice vote.
Bill text, before adoption of amendments, is available here.
Bill report, before adoption of amendments, is available here.
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