H.R.2761 - Halting All Parades for Presidents’ Yearly Birthdays, It Risks Taxpayer Harm, Damages, And Your Budget Act; HAPPY BIRTHDAY Budget Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2761, the "HAPPY BIRTHDAY Budget Act," aims to prohibit the use of federal funds for a military parade in the District of Columbia intended as a personal celebration for President Donald J. Trump. The bill cites concerns over costs, potential damage to infrastructure, and the appropriateness of using military resources for personal celebrations. It encourages alternative birthday celebrations and extends a "Happy Birthday" wish to the President.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would prevent the allocation of federal funds for a military parade in Washington D.C. celebrating President Trump's birthday. This would likely lead to the cancellation of any such parade planned using federal resources. The bill also expresses a sense of Congress that public funds should be used for the well-being and security of the American people, rather than for personal glorification.
Potential Benefits
- Prevents potential misuse of taxpayer money on events deemed primarily for personal glorification.
- Protects District of Columbia infrastructure from potential damage caused by heavy military vehicles.
- Reinforces the principle that military resources should be reserved for national celebrations, commemorations, or significant public occasions.
- Could free up federal funds for other priorities, such as public services or national defense.
- Aligns with the principle of fiscal responsibility by avoiding unnecessary expenditures.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- May be perceived by some as a partisan effort to undermine the President.
- Could be seen as limiting the President's ability to celebrate his birthday in a manner he deems appropriate.
- May create a perception of disrespect towards the President, regardless of the intent.
- Could be viewed as an overreach by Congress into the executive branch's prerogatives.
- The bill's focus on a specific individual (President Trump) could set a precedent for similar legislation targeting future presidents.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's prohibition on the use of federal funds aligns with Congress's power of the purse, as outlined in Article I, Section 9, Clause 7 of the Constitution, which states that "No Money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in Consequence of Appropriations made by Law." The bill also reflects the principle of responsible spending, which is implicit in the Constitution's emphasis on promoting the general welfare. 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).