H.R.452 - Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.452, the "Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act," directs the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the presentation of three Congressional Gold Medals to the members of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team. This is in recognition of their victory over the Soviet team at the 1980 Winter Olympics. The Act also authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to strike the gold medals and duplicates in bronze for sale.
Expected Effects
The Act will result in the creation and awarding of Congressional Gold Medals to the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team. It will also place one medal each in the Lake Placid Olympic Center, the United States Hockey Hall of Fame, and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum for public display and research.
Potential Benefits
- Honors the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team for their achievement.
- Preserves the memory of the "Miracle on Ice" for future generations.
- May inspire young athletes and promote interest in hockey.
- Could boost tourism at the locations where the medals are displayed.
- Symbolically recognizes a moment of national pride and unity.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The cost of striking the gold and bronze medals will be borne by the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
- The Act does not address any pressing national issues or contribute to economic or social progress directly.
- Focuses on a past event rather than addressing current challenges.
- May be seen as a symbolic gesture with limited tangible impact.
- Could be perceived as a less pressing priority compared to other legislative needs.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly the general welfare clause. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 allows Congress to "lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States". While awarding medals is not explicitly mentioned, it can be argued that honoring national achievements promotes a sense of unity and national pride, contributing to the general welfare. The act does not infringe upon any specific rights or liberties guaranteed by the Constitution or its amendments.
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).