This legislation, known as the "Build the Ballroom Act," seeks to authorize the construction of a permanent ballroom on the White House grounds. Congress identifies a critical need for this facility, noting that the current White House cannot accommodate large formal events for over 200 guests, forcing them off-site and creating significant security vulnerabilities for the President. The bill mandates that the new ballroom be planned to meet the specific needs of the President and the Executive Office, with the President holding sole approval over its design and construction. It specifies that the structure must include essential utilities like heating and electricity, be furnished, and allow for the removal of any existing structures. This initiative aims to provide a secure, dedicated venue for future presidential functions, addressing long-standing security and logistical concerns.
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Timeline
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Government Operations and Politics
Build the Ballroom Act
USA119th CongressHR-8543| House
| Updated: 4/28/2026
This legislation, known as the "Build the Ballroom Act," seeks to authorize the construction of a permanent ballroom on the White House grounds. Congress identifies a critical need for this facility, noting that the current White House cannot accommodate large formal events for over 200 guests, forcing them off-site and creating significant security vulnerabilities for the President. The bill mandates that the new ballroom be planned to meet the specific needs of the President and the Executive Office, with the President holding sole approval over its design and construction. It specifies that the structure must include essential utilities like heating and electricity, be furnished, and allow for the removal of any existing structures. This initiative aims to provide a secure, dedicated venue for future presidential functions, addressing long-standing security and logistical concerns.