High Court Upholds Fines Against Congressmen for Security Lapses

In a decisive move, the Supreme Court has declined to hear an appeal brought forth by Representative Lloyd Smucker of Pennsylvania and two other congressional members, setting a precedent on the enforcement of security protocols within the halls of Congress. This ruling leaves in place the fines imposed on these members for failing to complete mandatory security screenings prior to entering the House Chamber. Representative Smucker, who was fined $5,000 in May 2021, became the sixth House member to face such a penalty since the implementation of these rules.

The fines, which were first introduced in February 2021, aim to bolster security within the Capitol by ensuring all members undergo screening before participating in legislative activities. This security measure was largely seen as a response to the heightened concern over safety following the events preceding its enactment. Smucker, along with Representatives Andrew Clyde and former Representative Louie Gohmert, challenged the fines, arguing they were unconstitutional and infringed upon their duties and rights to vote on legislative matters. However, their appeal, which sought relief from these financial penalties for bypassing the mandatory checks, has been effectively dismissed by the highest court in the land.

With the Supreme Court’s refusal to entertain the appeal, the message is clear: adherence to security protocols within the legislative framework is non-negotiable, and violations will result in tangible consequences. This decision underscores the ongoing commitment of the House to maintain strict security measures, reaffirming the importance of these protocols in ensuring the safety and integrity of the legislative process.