To authorize the establishment of memorials to the Wisconsin infantry officers and enlisted men who fought in the Battle of Antietam and the Second Battle of Bull Run, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 7495 authorizes the establishment of memorials at Antietam National Battlefield and Manassas National Battlefield Park to honor Wisconsin infantry officers and enlisted men who fought in the Battle of Antietam and the Second Battle of Bull Run. The Secretary of the Interior will approve the locations, designs, and inscriptions of the memorials. No federal funds will be used for the design, acquisition, site preparation, or installation of the memorials; funding will rely on private contributions.
Expected Effects
The bill will lead to the creation of physical memorials at two national battlefields, commemorating the contributions of Wisconsin soldiers in key Civil War battles. The Secretary of Interior assumes responsibility for the maintenance of the memorials upon installation. This action preserves historical memory and provides a place for remembrance.
Potential Benefits
- Honors the service and sacrifice of Wisconsin soldiers in the Civil War.
- Enhances the historical and cultural significance of Antietam and Manassas National Battlefields.
- Provides educational opportunities for visitors to learn about the role of Wisconsin troops in the Civil War.
- Promotes tourism and visitation to the battlefields.
- Encourages private contributions for the establishment and maintenance of the memorials.
Potential Disadvantages
- Requires the Secretary of Interior to oversee the establishment and maintenance of the memorials, potentially adding to their workload.
- The reliance on private funding may delay or prevent the completion of the memorials if sufficient funds are not raised.
- The bill does not address potential environmental impacts from the construction of the memorials.
- The memorials may become a target for vandalism or desecration.
- The bill could set a precedent for similar requests from other states or groups, potentially leading to a proliferation of memorials at national parks.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill aligns with the general principles of promoting the general welfare through the preservation of historical sites and honoring military service. While there is no specific constitutional clause directly addressing memorials, the implied powers doctrine allows Congress to enact legislation necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).