Sergeants at Arms Extend Capitol Closure
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Capitol building will remain closed to tourists through May 1, the Sergeants at Arms of the House and Senate announced Monday.
The decision comes after the White House extended its voluntary guidance on social distancing to the end of April.
Both moves were made as the federal government continues to grapple with what is the best way to deal with the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.
In addition to extending the suspension of tours, Paul Irving, Sergeant at Arms for the House, and Michael Stenger, Sergeant at Arms for the Senate, access to the Capitol and the House and Senate Office Buildings will be limited to elected officials, their staff, credentialed press and those with official business with lawmakers.
“We are taking this temporary action out of concern for the health and safety of congressional employees as well as the public. We appreciate the understanding of those with planned visits interrupted by this necessary, but prudent, decision,” Irving and Stenger said.
