Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

H.R.2217 - Down East Remembrance Act (119th Congress)

Summary

H.R.2217, the Down East Remembrance Act, seeks to designate six creeks in North Carolina in honor of the lives lost in a plane crash in Carteret County on February 13, 2022. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 18, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. The bill specifies the exact latitude and longitude coordinates for each creek to be named after the individuals who perished in the tragic event.

Expected Effects

If enacted, H.R. 2217 will officially rename six creeks in North Carolina. This will serve as a permanent memorial to the victims of the plane crash. The change will be reflected in all official documents, maps, and regulations.

Potential Benefits

  • Provides a lasting tribute to the individuals who lost their lives.
  • Offers a sense of closure and remembrance for the families and community affected by the tragedy.
  • May increase local awareness of the area's history and significance.
  • Could potentially attract visitors interested in the memorial, boosting local tourism.
  • Reinforces the importance of honoring and remembering significant events in local history.

Potential Disadvantages

  • The act has limited broader impact beyond the immediate geographical area and affected families.
  • The act involves a relatively narrow scope, focusing on a specific local event rather than addressing broader national issues.
  • There are no identified economic disadvantages.

Constitutional Alignment

The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to provide a symbolic benefit to a local community by honoring the memory of deceased individuals. Designating geographical features is within the legislative powers granted to Congress under Article I, Section 8, which allows them to make laws for the general welfare of the United States. There are no apparent constitutional conflicts.

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).