US Federal House Bill HCR77

US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/26
• Refer: 3/12/26

Caption

Authorizing the use of the rotunda of the Capitol for the lying in state of the remains of Army Major Jeffrey R. O'Brien, Captain Cody A. Khork, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert M. Marzan, Sergeant First Class Noah L. Tietjens, Sergeant First Class Nicole M. Amor, Sergeant Declan J. Coady, and Sergeant Benjamin N. Pennington.

Summary

HCR77 is a concurrent resolution authorizing the use of the U.S. Capitol Rotunda for the lying in state of the remains of seven Army service members: Major Jeffrey R. O’Brien, Captain Cody A. Khork, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert M. Marzan, Sergeant First Class Noah L. Tietjens, Sergeant First Class Nicole M. Amor, Sergeant Declan J. Coady, and Sergeant Benjamin N. Pennington. The resolution recognizes that these individuals served with distinction in support of Operation Epic Fury and provides for a formal honor ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda on a date to be set by congressional leadership and the Architect of the Capitol. The measure is ceremonial and commemorative rather than regulatory. It does not create or amend substantive federal law, but it does authorize use of a federal facility and directs the necessary arrangements for the lying in state observance. The practical effect is to permit an official national tribute in the Capitol, coordinated by the President pro tempore of the Senate, the Speaker of the House, and the Architect of the Capitol.

Impact

HCR77 affects the use of the U.S. Capitol Rotunda by authorizing it as the site for lying in state honors for the named Army personnel. It does not change state law or federal statutory rights and obligations, but it does invoke congressional authority over Capitol facilities and requires the Architect of the Capitol to carry out logistical steps for the ceremony under congressional direction. The resolution primarily impacts the families of the deceased, the Army, congressional leadership, and Capitol operations staff.

Sentiment

The available context suggests broad respectful and supportive sentiment, consistent with a memorial resolution honoring fallen service members. The bill was introduced by members of the House and referred to committee without recorded opposition, debate, or votes in the provided materials. The tone of the measure is solemn and commemorative, emphasizing military service, sacrifice, and national recognition.

Contention

No substantive controversy is evident in the provided text or legislative history. Because the resolution is honorary and procedural, there are no apparent policy disputes over funding, eligibility, or legal authority. Any potential issues would likely be limited to scheduling and ceremonial arrangements for the Capitol Rotunda, which are assigned to congressional leadership and the Architect of the Capitol rather than being a point of legislative disagreement.