Judiciary Committee Approves Graham, Sinema Bill to Permanently Reauthorize Security for Supreme Court Justices

WASHINGTON – Today, the Senate Judiciary Committee advanced the Reauthorizing Security for Supreme Court Justices Act (S. 2511), which was introduced by Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) and U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-Arizona). The bill would provide permanent additional security for U.S. Supreme Court Justices.

“I am very pleased that the Judiciary Committee passed legislation I introduced with Senator Sinema that would authorize Supreme Court Police to carry firearms outside the grounds of the Supreme Court to protect our Justices. And I appreciate Senator Sinema for working with me on this important bill,” said Graham. “It's very important that our Court be provided the security they need to remain a safe, independent branch of the government.”

“Permanently renewing the Supreme Court’s security is a smart use of taxpayer dollars and ensures the Court’s police have the resources they need to protect our Justices," said Sinema.

Background on the Reauthorizing Security for Supreme Court Justices Act:

• The current authorization to provide security for Justices outside of Supreme Court grounds expires on December 29, 2019.
• Permanent reauthorization would provide Supreme Court Police the resources and ability to deal with gaps in security caused by temporary reauthorizations.
• This legislation would allow Justices to be protected domestically and internationally if necessary, mirroring the authority given to the Capitol Police and Secret Service as they protect members of Congress and the President.