The U.S. House of Representatives is increasing security funding for its members, doubling the annual home security allowance to $20,000, House officials announced Tuesday.
The decision follows rising concerns over safety for lawmakers outside of the Capitol grounds, especially after the shooting deaths of two Minnesota lawmakers in June.
In addition to the home security funds, members will now receive $5,000 for personal security expenses through the end of the current fiscal quarter, which ends Sept. 30. Previously, lawmakers were allocated $150 per month for such costs.
House Speaker Mike Johnson said the expanded security program is a pilot and will be reviewed after September.
