H.R.1502 - North Platte Canteen Congressional Gold Medal Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1502, the North Platte Canteen Congressional Gold Medal Act, seeks to award a Congressional Gold Medal to the individuals and communities who volunteered or donated to the North Platte Canteen during World War II. The canteen provided services to approximately 6 million U.S. troops. The bill directs the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the medal's presentation, and the Secretary of the Treasury to strike the medal.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill will formally recognize the contributions of the volunteers and donors to the North Platte Canteen. The Congressional Gold Medal will be presented and then displayed at the Lincoln County Historical Museum. Duplicate bronze medals may also be sold to cover costs.
Potential Benefits
- Recognition of Volunteerism: Formally acknowledges the significant contributions of home-front volunteers during World War II.
- Boost to Community Pride: Celebrates the history and efforts of the North Platte community and surrounding areas.
- Educational Opportunity: The medal's display at the Lincoln County Historical Museum will serve as an educational resource.
- Preservation of History: Helps preserve the memory of the North Platte Canteen and its role in supporting U.S. troops.
- Symbolic Value: Reinforces the importance of community support and volunteerism during times of national crisis.
Potential Disadvantages
- Minimal Direct Economic Impact: The bill primarily focuses on recognition rather than direct economic benefits.
- Potential Cost to Taxpayers: Striking the gold medal and duplicate bronze medals involves government expenditure, although the sale of bronze duplicates may offset some costs.
- Limited Scope: The bill's impact is geographically limited to the North Platte region and its historical significance.
- Opportunity Cost: Resources allocated to this bill could potentially be used for other purposes.
- Risk of Oversimplification: Focusing on one canteen may overshadow the contributions of other similar efforts during WWII.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly the Preamble's goal to "promote the general Welfare" by recognizing and honoring contributions to the war effort. Congress's power to coin money and regulate its value (Article I, Section 8) provides the constitutional basis for striking the medal. The act does not 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).