A bill to prohibit the use of Federal, State, foreign, or private funds to install permanent fencing around the White House complex.
Latest action (15 Sep 2026): Introduced
What this bill does
S. 5399 is a bill introduced in the U.S. Senate that, according to its title, would prohibit the use of federal, state, foreign, or private funds to install permanent fencing around the White House complex. Beyond this stated purpose, the specific text of the bill—including definitions, enforcement mechanisms, exceptions, or effective dates—has not yet been published, so no further details about how it would operate can be described at this time.
Based on the title alone, the bill would primarily affect federal agencies responsible for White House security, such as the Secret Service and General Services Administration, as well as any state, foreign, or private entities that might otherwise contribute funds toward such a project. The practical effects on security operations, funding decisions, or existing fencing arrangements cannot be determined until the full legislative text is available.
The bill was introduced on September 15, 2026, by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and referred for committee consideration, which is the standard first step for new legislation. Its current status is "Introduced," meaning it has not yet been scheduled for a committee vote, floor debate, or further action. Like most bills, it would need to pass through committee review, floor votes in both chambers, and presidential approval to become law—a process that has not yet begun.
Plain-English summary generated by Bill100 AI from the official record. Always verify against the source below.
Official summary
This bill is in the first stage of the legislative process. It was introduced into Congress on September 15, 2026. It will typically be considered by committee next before it is possibly sent on to the House or Senate as a whole.
Common questions
- What does S. 5399 do?
- S. 5399 is a bill introduced in the U.S. Senate that, according to its title, would prohibit the use of federal, state, foreign, or private funds to install permanent fencing around the White House complex. Beyond this stated purpose, the specific text of the bill—including definitions, enforcement mechanisms, exceptions, or effective dates—has not yet been published, so no further details about how it would operate can be described at this time. Based on the title alone, the bill would primarily affect federal agencies responsible for White House security, such as the Secret Service and General Services Administration, as well as any state, foreign, or private entities that might otherwise contribute funds toward such a project. The practical effects on security operations, funding decisions, or existing fencing arrangements cannot be determined until the full legislative text is available. The bill was introduced on September 15, 2026, by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and referred for committee consideration, which is the standard first step for new legislation. Its current status is "Introduced," meaning it has not yet been scheduled for a committee vote, floor debate, or further action. Like most bills, it would need to pass through committee review, floor votes in both chambers, and presidential approval to become law—a process that has not yet begun.
- Has S. 5399 become law?
- Not yet. As of 15 Sep 2026, S. 5399 is introduced.
- Who sponsored S. 5399?
- S. 5399 was sponsored by Sen. Chris Van Hollen [D-MD] (Democrat-MD), with 0 cosponsors.
- What's the latest action on S. 5399?
- Introduced (15 Sep 2026).
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