This legislation, officially named the White House Building Activities Locked-out in Lapse Act or BALL Act , establishes a clear restriction on federal spending during government shutdowns. Its primary purpose is to prohibit the use of federal funds for any construction or renovation activities. Specifically, this prohibition applies to the White House, its grounds, and any structures located within the White House grounds during any period of a lapse in appropriations . A crucial exception is made for projects that are directly related to matters of health or safety , ensuring that critical maintenance or emergency work can still proceed.