The Capitol’s Phase III Opening Begins

This week, the public will be allowed into the Senate chamber as part of the “Phase 3” reopening, the Sergeant at Arms told Senate offices last week. Beginning 30 minutes before the Senate comes into session, two public galleries will open to visitors. These galleries will remain open until adjournment. When the Senate is not in session, the galleries will be open from 8:30 A.M. until 4 P.M., Monday to Friday. Tickets are available through Senate offices.  Also, the House reopened this week, which will allow members to bring tour groups into the House public galleries while the chamber is in session. A member or staffer must stay with those visitors while they’re in the galleries. Members can also make appointments to bring tour groups onto the floor when the House is out of session.  Finally, the Supreme Court will reopen to the public for the first time in two-and-a-half years when it begins a new session in October.