[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 157 (Sunday, November 9, 1997)]
[Senate]
[Page S12309]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

      By Mr. LOTT (for himself, Mr. Daschle, and Mr. Warner):
  S. 1508. A bill to authorize the Architect of the Capitol to 
construct a Capitol Visitor Center under the direction of the United 
States Preservation Commission, and for other purposes; to the 
Committee on Rules and Administration.


 legislation authorizing the construction of a capitol visitors center

  Mr. WARNER. Mr. President, I rise as an original cosponsor of this 
legislation that will authorize the Architect of the Capitol to 
construct a Capitol Visitor Center under the direction of the U.S. 
Capitol Preservation Commission.
  The construction of a Capitol Visitor Center is a matter that has 
been discussed and contemplated for many years. In fact, both the 
current and the preceding Architect of the Capitol have reviewed and 
supported the project. Over the years, I have personally been involved 
in numerous Rules Committee hearings and briefings on the subject.
  In my view, the time has come for Congress to move ahead with this 
project. This legislation is an important step in that direction in 
that it directs the Capitol Preservation Commission to develop a 
detailed financial plan for constructing the project, largely with 
funds donated by the American people.
  The Capitol is the second most visited building in the entire 
Washington, DC area, having nearly 35,000 visitors pass through its 
doors every day. For many visitors there are long lines and waits in 
hot sticky weather, or cold wet weather, as there is no place for 
visitors to gather in preparation for their tour through the Capitol.
  The Capitol Visitor Center will have a tremendous, positive impact on 
the informational and educational experience afforded visitors to the 
Capitol. It will provide information regarding the history and role of 
Congress, along with additional information about the visitor's 
Representative and Senators
  But for me, the most compelling need for the Capitol Visitor Center 
is to add a major element of enhanced security for the entire Capitol 
building and environs. During the recent Capitol security hearings held 
in the Senate Rules Committee, the security benefits that a Capitol 
Visitor Center will provide were outlined clearly by the Capitol Police 
Board. I strongly believe that the security benefits provided by a 
Capitol Visitor are not to be taken lightly.
  I hope all Members will support this important legislation that will 
greatly enhance the experience visitors receive when visiting our 
Nations Capitol.
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