Proactive measures to prevent a repeat of the recent misconduct saga that led to the firing of former Architect of the Capitol Brett Blanton have been introduced in Congress as part of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the upcoming fiscal year.

Under the new bipartisan legislation, Congress would have the sole power to fire any future officeholders for the first time. Its language provides for the establishment of a special oversight commission that would both hire and remove permanent appointees, who currently serve at the pleasure of the sitting president. Advocates say it could potentially help fill the vacancy left in the wake of Blanton’s dismissal earlier this year and help buck an even longer trend of successive appointment delays that dates to the mid-90s.

New York representative Joseph D. Morelle said it “just seemed as though the system needs to be designed to protect the interests of the people here — members, staff … and everyday Americans who come to the Capitol to visit,” when speaking to reporters about the calls for reform that began once Blanton's unethical dealings and other abuses of power became public in 2021.

“The Architect of the Capitol oversees one of our country’s most cherished landmarks and the congressional workplaces housed within it,” Minnesota Senator Klobuchar said in a statement. “Given the far-reaching scope of the role, it’s essential for Congress to have the authority to appoint and remove the Architect through a bipartisan, majority vote. This legislation will strengthen congressional oversight of the office of the Architect of the Capitol and ensure it is accountable to Congress.”

The bill follows another last-minute effort that failed in early January and would also require the appointment of a deputy architect to support the position within 120 days of any vacancy in that post.

Klobuchar and other supporters have yet to complete their candidate search for Blanton's permanent replacement. Chere Rexroat has been serving in an interim capacity since his departure. 

Changes will not be made final until the official House vote to approve the NDAA, which is expected soon.