Lawmakers have cautioned the Trump administration about potential legal consequences for advancing a memorial project without congressional approval. The project involves constructing a 250-foot triumphal arch in Washington.
In a letter addressed to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and National Park Service officials, Democratic lawmakers and a Senate independent emphasized that proceeding with the project might lead to fines or criminal prosecution.
The letter highlights that appropriated funds must be used solely for purposes approved by Congress. It warns that misuse of unauthorized funds could result in suspension without pay, removal from office, and in cases of knowing and willful violations, criminal fines and imprisonment.
Senator Angus King, an independent from Maine who caucuses with Democrats, and Representative Jared Huffman of California, a leading Democrat on the House Natural Resources Committee, were among the signatories.
The letter stated that the administration would be infringing upon the Commemorative Works Act, which governs monuments on federal land. Furthermore, it cited a 1912 law mandating express congressional authority for building structures in the capital, as well as the Height of Buildings Act, which limits buildings in Washington to 160 feet.
In an interview, Senator King remarked, “This project is stone-cold illegal. It is one of the clearest legal cases I’ve seen in more than 50 years of being a lawyer.”
An Interior Department spokeswoman expressed pride in the project, calling it something all Americans can be proud of.
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