The No Palaces Act requires the White House to obtain approval from the National Capital Planning Commission before making any significant improvements or modifications to the building or its grounds. Once the Commission approves a proposed improvement, Congress has a 60-day window to pass a joint resolution disapproving it—if Congress takes no action, the project can proceed. The bill also prohibits using private funds for White House improvements unless Congress explicitly authorizes it and requires that any federal funding comply with existing appropriations law. Additionally, the legislation creates expedited court procedures allowing members of Congress, preservation councils, and other designated parties to file lawsuits challenging violations of these requirements, with district courts required to issue decisions within 30 days and appeals handled within 90 days. The bill effectively gives Congress and federal oversight bodies greater control over major White House renovation and construction projects.
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