A group of lawmakers has cautioned the Trump administration about potential fines and criminal charges for moving forward with the construction of a 250-foot triumphal arch in Washington, D.C., without congressional approval.

In a letter addressed to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and National Park Service officials, Democrats and an independent Senate member stated that the administration could be in violation of at least three laws. The officials might face personal penalties if the project proceeds unlawfully.

The letter emphasized that Congressionally appropriated funds should be used strictly for their designated purposes. Officials using unauthorized funds could face consequences, including suspension without pay, removal from office, or even criminal fines and imprisonment for willful violations.

The letter boasted signatures from several notable figures, including Senator Angus King from Maine, an independent who aligns with Democrats, and Representative Jared Huffman from California, a leader on the House Natural Resources Committee.

Furthermore, the letter noted violations of the Commemorative Works Act, which regulates monuments on federal land, alongside a 1912 statute requiring explicit congressional approval. Additionally, the Height of Buildings Act restricts structures beyond 160 feet in height within Washington, D.C.

Senator King expressed strong opposition, labeling the project as unequivocally illegal. With over five decades of legal experience, he emphasized the project’s clear violation of existing laws.