§1826 Easements for Rights-of-way

Summary

The Architect of the Capitol can give easements — permission to use land for a right-of-way — over the Capitol Grounds and other public land the Architect manages. The Architect sets the terms, can charge money or accept other kinds of payment, and must not take more land than needed. Money from easements goes into a special Treasury easement account and can be used by the Architect as Congress allows. The Architect can accept non‑cash payment instead of or along with money. Before granting an easement, the Architect must send written notice saying what will be given and what will be paid, and get approval from the right body: the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration for Senate property, the House Office Building Commission for House property, or both for other property. The Architect can end an easement for broken terms, if it is not used for 2 years, or if it is abandoned. This rule applies starting in fiscal year 2008 and every fiscal year after.