H.R.186 - Hershel Woody Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.186, the Hershel Woody Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act, authorizes the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation to establish a commemorative work on the National Mall in Washington D.C. to honor Medal of Honor recipients. The bill specifically allows the monument to be located within the Reserve area of the National Mall, near the Lincoln Memorial. This act modifies existing regulations under Title 40 of the United States Code to facilitate the monument's placement.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is to allow the construction of the National Medal of Honor Monument in a prominent location on the National Mall. This will provide a dedicated space to honor the extraordinary acts of valor, selfless service, and sacrifice of Medal of Honor recipients. It ensures that their legacy is visibly recognized and accessible to the public.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a national monument honoring Medal of Honor recipients.
- Enhances public awareness of the sacrifices made by American heroes.
- Offers an inspirational site for citizens and visitors.
- Potentially increases tourism to the National Mall.
- Preserves and promotes the legacy of the Medal of Honor.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased congestion on the National Mall.
- Requires allocation of federal land for the monument.
- May necessitate ongoing maintenance costs.
- Possible disruption during the construction phase.
- Could face opposition from groups with competing interests for use of the National Mall.
Constitutional Alignment
This bill aligns with the general principles of honoring military service and national values, which can be argued to fall under the implied powers necessary to provide for the common defense and promote the general welfare as outlined in the Preamble of the US Constitution. While there is no specific constitutional provision mandating such monuments, the act does not violate any explicit prohibitions or reserved powers. The legislative power to enact such a bill is vested in Congress under Article I, Section 8, which grants the power to control federal lands and establish commemorative works.
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).