H.R.250 - To direct the Joint Committee on the Library to procure a statue of Benjamin Franklin for placement in the Capitol. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.250 directs the Joint Committee on the Library to procure a statue of Benjamin Franklin for placement in the United States Capitol. The bill sets a deadline of December 31, 2025, for obtaining the statue. It also mandates that the statue be placed in a suitable location accessible to the public by December 31, 2026.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, will result in the acquisition and installation of a statue of Benjamin Franklin in the Capitol. This will likely enhance the Capitol's collection of historical figures. It also serves as a reminder of Franklin's contributions to the founding of the United States.
Potential Benefits
- Honors Benjamin Franklin, a key Founding Father.
- Enhances the cultural and historical significance of the U.S. Capitol.
- Provides an educational opportunity for visitors to learn about Franklin's contributions.
- May stimulate artistic endeavors related to the statue's creation.
- Could boost tourism to the Capitol.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Involves government spending, which could be directed elsewhere.
- May require ongoing maintenance costs.
- Could potentially spark debate over the selection of historical figures to be honored in the Capitol.
- The selection and placement process might become politicized.
- There may be more pressing needs for the use of government resources.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general principles of the US Constitution, particularly regarding the powers of Congress to manage federal property and promote national heritage. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to legislate for the general welfare and to control federal lands and buildings. 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).