Senate Panel Blocks FBI HQ Move to DC

The Senate Appropriations Committee voted 15-14 to block the Trump administration’s plan to move the FBI headquarters from its previously selected site in Greenbelt, Maryland, to the Ronald Reagan Building in downtown Washington, D.C. The amendment, introduced by Sen. Chris Van Hollen, restricts funding to the Greenbelt site and reflects concerns about executive overreach, insufficient review of security and mission needs, and the economic impact on Maryland. Sen. Lisa Murkowski joined Democrats in supporting the measure. Maryland leaders argue that relocating to Greenbelt preserves local economic benefits, while supporters of the D.C. move cite cost savings and a more central location. The dispute stalled progress on the broader Justice Department funding bill as some Republicans withdrew support, calling the amendment a 'poison pill.' The fate of the FBI headquarters remains unresolved as the issue moves into wider congressional funding negotiations.