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 The White House will open for tours starting April 15 two days a
week, it said in a statement, adding that masks are optional and
those who have tested positive for the novel coronavirus or are
otherwise possibly ill should not attend.
Congress is also weighing a phased reopening starting March 28 and
moving toward a full reopening by Sept. 5, the Washington Post
reported, citing an unnamed source.
The moves this spring come as U.S. COVID-19 cases continue to
decline following the Omicron variant-driven spike, even as mounting
cases in Europe and China have raised some concerns about the
potential for another wave.
"The White House will continue to closely monitor the COVID-19
situation with guidance based on recommendations from the CDC, and
other public health officials and medical experts," and will "adjust
availability ... as necessary," it said.
White House spokeswoman Jen Psaki on Monday acknowledged likely
"fluctuation" in U.S. cases, while the White House separately on
Tuesday sought more U.S. funding to manage current cases and bolster
the nation's long-term preparedness, including for future variants.
"We have made tremendous progress in our fight against COVID-19 but
our work isn't done," Biden tweeted on Tuesday.
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Washington officials have followed leaders in
all 50 states in lifting most coronavirus
restrictions. Two of the Smithsonian's
attractions this week also reopened seven days
per week, though it said "for now, most" of its
museums will remain on modified schedules.
Pfizer Inc, meanwhile, is seeking U.S. approval
for a fourth vaccine shot in people aged 65 and
older, the Post reported separately, as leaders
also promote vaccinations.
Representatives for the U.S. Capitol Police did
not respond to a request for comment on the
Washington Post report. Another concern for the
Capitol remains security following the deadly
Jan. 6, 2021, attack.
(Reporting by Susan Heavey; additional reporting
by Moira Warburton and Jarrett Renshaw; editing
by Jonathan Oatis)
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