Peace Corps Volunteers Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025
Summary
The Peace Corps Volunteers Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025 aims to award a Congressional Gold Medal to Peace Corps volunteers in recognition of their 65 years of service, dedication to world peace, and contributions to international friendship. The bill highlights the historical significance of the Peace Corps and the impact of its volunteers across various sectors in over 140 countries. It also acknowledges the sacrifices made by volunteers, including those who died in service.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill will formally recognize the Peace Corps volunteers' contributions through a Congressional Gold Medal. This recognition could enhance the Peace Corps' visibility and inspire future generations to engage in similar service. It also directs the Secretary of the Treasury to strike the gold medal and authorizes the production and sale of bronze duplicates.
Potential Benefits
- Public recognition of Peace Corps volunteers' service and dedication.
- Potential inspiration for future generations to engage in international service.
- Reinforcement of the importance of international cooperation and diplomacy.
- Increased awareness of the Peace Corps' mission and impact.
- Symbolic gesture of gratitude from the United States to its volunteers.
Potential Disadvantages
- The cost of striking the gold medal and its duplicates, although authorized from the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund, represents a use of public funds.
- The act itself does not directly address current challenges faced by the Peace Corps or its volunteers.
- The recognition is symbolic and may not translate into tangible benefits for current or former volunteers.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's broad goals of promoting the general welfare and securing the blessings of liberty, as stated in the Preamble. Congress's power to legislate and appropriate funds for such recognition is derived from Article I, Section 8, which grants it the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. The act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional limitations or individual rights.
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).