Maryland Democrat Rep. Jamie Raskin plans to introduce legislation to increase congressional and federal oversight of major renovation and construction projects at the White House.
The bill would require formal review of future projects involving significant structural changes, new construction, or major interior redesigns, aligning the process with standards used for other federal properties.
The measure would not retroactively affect past projects but aims to clarify procedures for future work, including cost estimates, design review, compliance with historic preservation and safety requirements, and reporting to Congress.
Federal agencies involved in White House maintenance, such as the General Services Administration, the National Park Service, and the Secret Service, would coordinate on review and approval processes.
Raskin’s office emphasized that the legislation focuses on the principle that the White House, while unique, remains a government-owned property maintained with taxpayer funds.
The bill is expected to define which projects require review, how oversight would be conducted, and reporting obligations to ensure transparency and accountability.
