Measure would establish commission to investigate U.S. Capitol attack

Three lawmakers have introduced a bill they said would establish a national commission responsible for investigating the domestic terrorist attack on the United States Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Reps. Rodney Davis (R-IL), John Katko (R-NY), and James Comer (R-KY) noted the commission would consist of 10 members made up of five Republicans and five Democrats to examine and report on the facts and causes relating to the attack.

“On Jan. 6, 2021, the U.S. Capitol was attacked, and it’s imperative we fully investigate how it happened and the steps needed to ensure it never happens again,” Davis, Committee on House Administration ranking member, said. “It’s critical this investigation remains bipartisan, but with full force. This commission would evaluate the federal government’s response through hearings and subpoenaing witnesses to get the answers Americans deserve.”

The measure would authorize the commission to hold hearings and issue subpoenas, per lawmakers, noting the commission’s structure is in accordance with the 9/11 Commission established by Congress.

According to the bill, the commission will submit, no later than 18 months after the date of the enactment of the bill, a final report containing such findings, conclusions, and recommendations for corrective measures to the Chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on House Administration, the Chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate, the President, and Congress.