House approves fines of up to $ 10,000 for lawmakers who evade metal detectors

WASHINGTON – The House passed a rule on Tuesday evening to impose fines on lawmakers who flout new security measures requiring them to go through a security check, including metal detectors, to enter House floors.

Under this measure, lawmakers who refuse to comply would be fined $ 5,000 for the first offense and $ 10,000 for a second offense.

The new rule comes in the wake of the Jan.6 assault on the Capitol.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., Said in a statement Tuesday that within days of the attack, “many House Republicans began to disrespect our heroes by refusing to adhere to the precautions. basic to ensuring the safety of members of our congressional community – including avoiding metal detectors, physically pushing police, and even trying to bring guns into the bedroom.

“It’s impossible to understand why a member would refuse to adhere to these simple, common sense steps to keep that body safe,” Pelosi said.

Under the rule, members could appeal a fine to the House ethics committee. If a member fails to pay the fine after a period of 90 days, the amount will be deducted from their paycheck. Lawmakers cannot use campaign funds or official funds to pay fines.

Since the metal detectors were installed outside the house, a number of Republicans have protested and bypassed them, with some claiming the projections violate their constitutional rights.

First-year rep Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., Said on Twitter last month: “I am legally allowed to carry my gun in Washington, DC and around the Capitol complex. Metal detectors at the outside the House would not have ended the violence we saw. last week – it’s just another political coup from President Pelosi. “

U.S. Capitol Police also launched an investigation last month into a report that Rep. Andy Harris, R-Md., Attempted to carry a gun on House floors.

Harris’s office responded to questions about the investigation in a statement saying “Congressman still complies with House metal detectors and wand” and “never carried a gun on the floor of the House “.