Congressional Oversight Access Act

This bill would bar executive branch staff, contractors, or agents from using physical force or otherwise physically interfering with a Member of Congress who is doing official oversight work on federal property—like visiting a detention center—so long as the Member shows valid congressional ID and is not posing a clear, immediate threat to people or property. It aims to make sure lawmakers can review, monitor, or investigate federal programs and operations, whether the visit is scheduled or not, without being detained or removed by executive branch personnel.

It does not let Members skip normal security checks, and it still allows action if there is a clear, imminent danger. “Federal property” includes places owned, leased, or run for the federal government, including detention centers and field sites.

• Who is affected: Members of Congress; executive branch staff, security, and contractors on federal property.
• What changes: No physical force, detention, removal, or physical interference against Members during official oversight activities, unless there’s an immediate safety threat; normal security screening still applies.
• Why it matters: Could lead to more open access for congressional oversight, which may improve transparency and accountability at federal facilities.