Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act
Summary
The "Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act" authorizes the award of three Congressional Gold Medals to the members of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team. This is in recognition of their victory over the Soviet team at the 1980 Winter Olympics. The act also directs the Secretary of the Treasury to design and strike the medals.
Expected Effects
This act will result in the creation and awarding of Congressional Gold Medals. One medal will be given to each of the following: the Lake Placid Olympic Center, the United States Hockey Hall of Fame Museum, and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Museum. The act also authorizes the minting and sale of bronze duplicates to cover costs.
Potential Benefits
- Recognizes and honors the achievements of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team.
- Preserves the memory of the "Miracle on Ice" for future generations.
- Promotes interest in ice hockey and Olympic sports in the United States.
- Provides cultural and historical artifacts for display and research at designated museums.
- Boosts morale and national pride by commemorating a significant moment in American history.
Potential Disadvantages
- The cost of minting the gold and bronze medals will be borne by the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
- The act does not address any pressing economic or social issues.
- The act might be seen as symbolic and not having a tangible impact on the lives of most Americans.
- There are no direct disadvantages, but the resources used could potentially be allocated to other programs.
- The act may be perceived as prioritizing sports achievements over other forms of national contribution.
Constitutional Alignment
The act aligns with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to promote national pride and commemorate a significant achievement in American history. Congress has the power to enact legislation that recognizes achievements and promotes cultural values. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to coin money and regulate its value, which implicitly includes the power to create commemorative medals.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).