H.R.3583 - To amend title 4, United States Code, to ensure that a funeral honors detail recites the 13 Folds of Honor when presenting a flag of the United States in connection with the death of a member of the Armed Forces or veteran. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3583 aims to amend Title 4 of the United States Code, mandating that funeral honors details recite the "13 Folds of Honor" when presenting the U.S. flag at the funerals of deceased members of the Armed Forces or veterans. The bill includes a "Sense of Congress" dedication to the 13 service members killed in Kabul, Afghanistan, in August 2021. It also provides an exception allowing the next of kin to opt out of the recitation.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be to standardize and formalize the recitation of the 13 Folds of Honor during military funeral ceremonies. This would ensure a consistent and potentially more meaningful tribute to deceased service members and veterans. The bill also acknowledges the bereaved family's right to decline the recitation, respecting individual preferences during a sensitive time.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a standardized, respectful tribute to deceased service members and veterans.
- Formally recognizes the significance of the 13 Folds of Honor.
- Offers a sense of closure and honor to grieving families.
- Acknowledges the sacrifices made by military personnel.
- Allows families to opt out of the recitation, respecting personal preferences.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could be perceived as overly sentimental or performative by some.
- May add additional time to funeral ceremonies.
- The recitation's religious undertones (references to God) may not be universally appreciated.
- Potential for inconsistent application or interpretation of the recitation.
- No significant disadvantages are apparent.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the U.S. Constitution is generally positive. While the recitation includes religious references, the opt-out provision helps mitigate potential concerns regarding the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. The bill primarily deals with military honors, an area where the government has broad authority. The bill does not infringe upon any specific constitutional rights, and the opt-out clause further protects individual liberties.
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).