In House Committee·Last action 132 days ago

White House could face the same historic-preservation rules as other federal sites

Officially: People’s White House Historic Preservation Act

The White House and its grounds would no longer be left out of one federal historic-preservation law. That could mean more review before changes are made there. The bill only changes the law by deleting the current exception.

Where it stands

Sitting in House Committee

No vote scheduled. Constituent contact is what moves bills out of committee.

What this bill actually does

Takes out the current rule that says section 307104 of title 54 does not apply to the White House or its grounds.
Makes the White House follow the same specific National Historic Preservation Act rules in that section as other covered federal properties.
Changes the law only by deleting and adjusting words. It does not set up a new program, office, or funding stream.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill is sitting in committee with no scheduled vote — which means a small number of constituent messages can decide whether it moves forward or quietly dies.

The debate

What people are saying about this bill

✓Arguments in support

Protects the White House as "the People's House": Ensures that any changes require public input, preventing unilateral decisions that could alter its historic character.
Standardizes review processes: Aligns the White House with other federal historic buildings, requiring formal reviews by expert commissions.
Prevents irreversible damage: Addresses concerns about potential harm to the White House's historic value, ensuring changes are carefully considered.

✕Arguments against

Potential delays in renovations: The requirement for reviews could slow down necessary updates or changes to the White House.
Limits presidential flexibility: Some may argue that the President needs the ability to make quick decisions for security or operational reasons.
Partisan framing: The bill's association with specific political events might make it difficult to gain bipartisan support.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in House

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House Committee

Under House committee consideration

Latest: Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources. (12/16/2025)

DEC 16

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House Floor Vote

Voted on by House

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Passed House

Approved by House

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Senate Review

Sent to Senate for consideration

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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White House could face the same historic-preservation rules as other federal sites

What people are saying about this bill

Legislative timeline

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