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House offices have to clean up their [hallway] act |
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By Jordy Yager
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Posted: 05/02/08 06:03 PM [ET] |
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Beginning Friday, House members and their staffs will have three months to remove items in the hallways outside of their offices, including easels, plants, electronic kiosks, sign-up tables and flag stands. The new policy was issued by Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Dan Beard in response to the growing concern that the items in the halls could cause problems in the event of an evacuation. It is also geared toward bringing the House in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. “We have been directed by the leadership to enforce this policy, which has been four years in the making,” said Jeff Ventura, spokesperson for the CAO. “It will ensure that the House’s hallways remain safe for everyone, including those with disabilities -- and will be enforced with equity and without exception.” After the three-month transition period any remaining items in the hallways will be removed without notice by the CAO. Items will be held for three-days before they are thrown out. The superintendent will be in charge of installing wall-mounted flag holders for offices that wish to do so, but there will be a limit of three flags each. The policy specifies limited circumstances when items may be placed or stored in a hallway or exit access area of a House Office Building and anyone with questions should contact the CAO. |
