H.R.1761 - Donald J. Trump $250 Bill Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1761, the "Donald J. Trump $250 Bill Act," proposes amending the Federal Reserve Act to mandate the printing of $250 Federal Reserve notes featuring a portrait of Donald J. Trump. The bill also seeks to modify Title 31 of the United States Code to allow portraits of living presidents on currency. It was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 27, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Financial Services.
The bill expresses the sense of Congress that the $250 bills should commemorate the semiquincentennial of the United States. The proposed legislation would require the Secretary of the Treasury to print these notes within one year of enactment.
This bill is largely symbolic, and its passage is uncertain given the standard legislative process and potential political opposition.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.1761 would result in the creation and printing of $250 Federal Reserve notes featuring Donald J. Trump. It would also change the existing law to allow living presidents to be featured on US currency.
The actual economic impact would likely be minimal, primarily affecting the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. The symbolic impact, however, could be significant, sparking debate about the appropriateness of honoring a living president in this way.
Potential Benefits
- Could be seen as a way to honor a former president and commemorate a historical event (the semiquincentennial).
- May increase collectibility of currency.
- Could stimulate short-term interest in currency design and history.
- Potentially boost morale among supporters of Donald J. Trump.
- Could generate revenue through the sale of commemorative notes to collectors.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could be viewed as politically divisive and inappropriate to feature a living president on currency.
- May be seen as a waste of taxpayer money if the notes are not widely accepted or used.
- Could set a precedent for future presidents to be featured on currency, potentially politicizing currency design.
- May face significant opposition from those who disagree with the politics of Donald J. Trump.
- Could be seen as a vanity project rather than a measure of substantive importance.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution grants Congress the power to coin money and regulate the value thereof. The bill falls under this enumerated power.
However, the symbolic nature of the bill and its potential for political divisiveness could raise concerns about whether it serves the general welfare, as mentioned in the Preamble. There is no explicit constitutional prohibition against featuring living individuals on currency.
Amendment I regarding freedom of speech is not directly implicated, but the symbolic expression through currency design could be debated in terms of government endorsement.
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).