Bill aims to end blocked congressional access at federal buildings

House Democrats, led by Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.), introduced the Congressional Oversight and Agency Access Act (H.R. 9835) on July 24, 2026, to mandate governmentwide rules for congressional access to federal facilities. The bill would grant lawmakers and staff access to public buildings during business hours, require after-hours access, and mandate access to secure areas within 24 hours of a request. It applies even during presidential or public health emergencies and includes contractor-operated facilities. The legislation responds to disputes under the Trump administration, including a DHS policy requiring seven-day notice for visits to immigration detention centers, which was temporarily blocked by a court. Beyer cited personal denials of access to USAID, the U.S. Institute of Peace, Interior Department meetings, and ICE facilities. The bill is cosponsored by eight House Democrats and supported by the Project on Government Oversight.