Ranking Member Espaillat Statement at the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Request Hearing for the Library of Congress and the Architect of the Capitol

Congressman Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13), Ranking Member of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee, delivered the following remarks at the Subcommittee's fiscal year 2025 budget request hearing for the Library of Congress and the Architect of the Capitol:

Good morning, Dr. Hayden and Mr. DiPietro. I echo the Chairman in welcoming you to discuss your Agency budget requests for fiscal year 2025.

This has been quite the year for the Architect of the Capitol. I know the role of AOC is a difficult one and especially given the Agency’s current challenges. Mr. DiPetro- thank you for leading the team until a new AOC is found.

Also, Congratulations to the AOC Office of the Chief Financial Officer for receiving the prestigious Associations of Government (AGA) Certificate of Excellence in Accountability Reporting (CEAR). I understand this award is for preparing an excellent fiscal year 2023 Performance and Accountability Report (PAR). Great job.

For fiscal year 2025, the AOC has requested $1 billion, an increase of $84 million or 9 percent over the fiscal year 2024 enacted levels. This increase addresses backlogs and deferred maintenance projects that are necessary across the Capitol Complex.  

I would also like to go on the record expressing my concerns regarding the delay in installing the honorific plaque to honor United States Capitol Police officers and other members of law enforcement. I know at this point; the AOC is ready and awaiting clear direction to install the plaque. The project, required by Public Law 117–103, is on hold—without explanation from Republican leadership.  I hope others on this Subcommittee also share my desire to see this honorific plaque promptly installed.

Dr. Hayden. The Library of Congress is a national treasure and an unparalleled resource, and I appreciate your commitment to making the Library and its collections more discoverable and accessible to the public as well as your continued emphasis on technology development.

I also would like to extend a special thanks to the library’s dedicated staff for their continuous and essential support to Congress and especially the Appropriations Committee.

For fiscal year 2025, the Library has requested $944 million, an increase of $46 million or 5.1 percent over the fiscal year 2024 enacted levels.

As Ranking Member, I am committed to ensuring the Library and the AOC have the resources they need to fulfill their missions, safeguard their staff and infrastructures, and provide needed services to the American people.  Thank you all again for being here and I yield back.