S. 3361: No Palaces Act

This bill, known as the No Palaces Act, aims to establish new requirements for making improvements to the White House and its grounds. Specifically, it would amend existing laws to ensure that the National Capital Planning Commission (NCPC) must approve any proposed improvements before they can be carried out. Here are the key provisions and processes outlined in the bill:

Requirements for Improvements

• Consultation Requirement: Before initiating any demolition activities or making commitments regarding improvements, federal agencies must consult with the NCPC.
• Approval Process: No building or site improvement can occur unless:
  • The Executive Office of the President or a federal agency acting on behalf of the Executive Office completes a concept review of the proposed improvement.
  • The proposed improvement receives approval from the NCPC.
  • No joint resolution of disapproval is enacted by Congress during a specified consideration period.
• Joint Resolution of Disapproval: Congress can introduce a joint resolution to disapprove the NCPC-approved improvement, which must be acted upon within 60 days. If a joint resolution is not passed within that timeframe, the improvement may proceed.

Funding Restrictions

• Limitations on Private Funds: Private funds cannot be used for any improvements unless authorized by Congress.
• Use of Federal Funds: Any federal funds used for improvements must comply with existing legal requirements related to funds.

Judicial Review

• Right to Sue: Various entities, including members of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and any member of Congress, may bring legal action against violations of this act regarding proposed improvements.
• Expedited Legal Process: Any civil action under this act must be expedited in federal court, with specific deadlines for decisions and appeals to ensure quick resolution.

Procedural Guidelines

• The bill outlines detailed procedural guidelines for Congress regarding how to handle joint resolutions of disapproval, including strict timelines for reporting and voting.
• It restricts certain motions and amendments to streamline the legislative process around disapproval resolutions.

Impact of the Legislation

The intent of this legislation is to provide a more structured process for improving or making changes to the White House and its grounds, potentially ensuring better oversight and public accountability in such decisions.

Relevant Companies

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