House appropriators have laid out their priorities for the Legislative Branch's fiscal 2026 funding, with concerns spanning from member security to the reliability of Capitol elevators. The comprehensive committee report, released ahead of Thursday's full-committee markup, touches on various aspects of Capitol Hill operations and infrastructure.

**Security at the Forefront** The safety of members of Congress is highlighted as a primary concern, with the report directing Capitol Police to focus patrols on areas frequently visited by lawmakers, particularly when they traverse the Capitol Plaza. The committee expressed concerns about the effectiveness of security measures and has decided to discontinue funding for a pilot program of Capitol Police field offices across the country, citing an "insufficient return on investment."

**Enhanced Road Safety and Accessibility** The report advocates for improved road safety measures, including more parking spaces for expectant mothers and the addition of a crossing guard on busy Independence Avenue. It also calls for a review of policies on motorized devices like electric scooters, reflecting ongoing interest from members, staff, and visitors.

**Food Services to Cater to All** In an effort to create a more inclusive environment, the committee emphasizes the need for improved food service management, particularly for individuals with food allergies or celiac disease. The House Chief Administrative Officer is instructed to ensure that food is accessible, properly prepared, stored, and clearly labeled to prevent any health issues.

**Questions Over Capitol Police Perks** The report questions the necessity of take-home vehicles for Capitol Police civilian employees and demands a "responsible reduction" in their number, signaling a push for more accountability and resource management.

**Elevator Outages a Rising Concern** Frequent elevator malfunctions in the House Office Buildings have not gone unnoticed. The panel points out the need for urgent and effective solutions to reduce disruptions caused by these outages, which affect daily operations and accessibility.

**Dome Tour Dilemmas** The report also touches on the difficulties faced by member offices in scheduling tours to the top of the Capitol Dome, an experience highly sought after by visitors but currently restricted in availability.

As the committee prepares for the full markup of the funding bill, these highlighted issues suggest a focused approach towards enhancing security, accessibility, and operational efficiency on Capitol Hill.