H.R.452 - Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.452, the "Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act," seeks to award 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 bill details the historical context of the event, emphasizing its impact on American morale during the Cold War and its influence on the sport of hockey in the United States.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill will result in the creation and presentation of three Congressional Gold Medals. One medal will be given to each of the following: the Lake Placid Olympic Center, the United States Hockey Hall of Fame, and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum. The Act also authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to strike and sell duplicate bronze medals to cover the costs.
Potential Benefits
- Boost to National Pride: Recognizes a significant moment in American sports history, potentially fostering national pride.
- Preservation of History: Ensures the "Miracle on Ice" is remembered and celebrated for future generations.
- Support for Sports: Highlights the importance of amateur sports and their potential to inspire.
- Economic Benefit: Sales of duplicate bronze medals could generate revenue for the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
- Cultural Enrichment: The display of the medals at prominent locations enhances cultural and historical awareness.
Potential Disadvantages
- Cost to Taxpayers: The creation of the gold medals will incur costs, although the sale of bronze duplicates is intended to offset these expenses.
- Limited Direct Impact: The Act primarily serves as a symbolic gesture and may not have substantial practical effects on most Americans.
- Potential for Political Bias: While the event is widely celebrated, some may view the focus on a sports victory as a distraction from more pressing issues.
- Bureaucratic Overhead: The process of designing, striking, and awarding the medals involves administrative overhead.
- Risk of Trivialization: Over-celebration of a single event could overshadow other important historical moments.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly the Preamble's goal to "promote the general Welfare" by fostering national unity and celebrating achievements. Congress's power to coin money and regulate its value (Article I, Section 8) supports the creation and sale of medals. The act does not infringe upon any specific rights or freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights.
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).