Steny Hoyer: “I support, clearly, the gentleman from Ohio's (Mr. Ney) motion and congratulate him for bringing this matter to the…”

“I support, clearly, the gentleman from Ohio's (Mr. Ney) motion and congratulate him for bringing this matter to the floor in such a timely fashion. For 5 months, Mr. Speaker, more than 130 men and women of the District of Columbia National Guard stood watch here at the Capitol complex alongside our own Capitol Police. They superbly assisted the Capitol Police in the discharge of their principal duty, which is to enable Congress to operate securely in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities. With the support of the National Guard Bureau and the Department of Defense, the men and women of the District of Columbia Guard helped make it possible for Congress to continue its work. For that, all Members are thankful. The men and women of the Guard also enabled our Capitol Police to have some measure of much needed rest and relief. Even with the Guard's help, Capitol Police officers worked 12-hour shifts during the last 7 months, most for 6 days a week. I hope all the Members heard that because it is not appropriate that we allow that to continue. It is not appropriate for our security. It is not appropriate for the safety of our men and women in the Capitol Police. It is not appropriate for their families. Fortunately, that grueling schedule has somewhat subsided.”