H.R.3498 - Henrietta Lacks Congressional Gold Medal Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3498, the Henrietta Lacks Congressional Gold Medal Act, proposes to posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal to Henrietta Lacks in recognition of her invaluable contributions to global health, scientific research, quality of life, and patients' rights through her immortal HeLa cells. The bill directs the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange the presentation of the medal. The Secretary of the Treasury is tasked with striking the gold medal, which will then be given to the Smithsonian Institution for display and research.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill will formally recognize Henrietta Lacks' contribution to science and medicine with a Congressional Gold Medal. The medal's display at the Smithsonian Institution will ensure her story and legacy are preserved and accessible to the public. It may also encourage further discussion and awareness of bioethics and patient rights.
Potential Benefits
- Recognition of Scientific Contribution: Formally acknowledges Henrietta Lacks' impact on medical science.
- Promotion of Bioethics Awareness: Raises awareness about informed consent and patient rights.
- Educational Opportunity: The Smithsonian display will educate the public about HeLa cells and their significance.
- Symbolic Justice: Provides a measure of recognition to Henrietta Lacks and her family for the use of her cells without consent.
- Inspiration for Future Scientists: Highlights the importance of scientific research and its potential to improve lives.
Potential Disadvantages
- Financial Cost: Striking the gold medal will incur costs, although these are authorized from the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
- Limited Direct Impact: The medal itself does not directly address ongoing issues related to bioethics or healthcare access.
- Potential for Oversimplification: The recognition might overshadow the complex ethical issues surrounding the use of HeLa cells.
- Delayed Recognition: The recognition comes decades after the initial contributions and ethical breaches.
- Risk of Tokenism: The award could be perceived as a symbolic gesture without addressing systemic issues in healthcare and research ethics.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it recognizes contributions that have significantly improved public health and scientific knowledge. Congress has the power to legislate in areas that promote the general welfare, and honoring individuals who have made significant contributions falls within this purview. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
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).