H.R.485 - Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.485, the Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act, seeks to posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal to Muhammad Ali in recognition of his contributions to the United States. The bill highlights Ali's achievements as an athlete, his stance as a conscientious objector, and his work as a civil rights champion and humanitarian. It authorizes the Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the presentation of the medal.
Expected Effects
If passed, this bill will result in the creation and presentation of a Congressional Gold Medal to Muhammad Ali's wife, Lonnie Ali. The Secretary of the Treasury will be responsible for striking the medal. Duplicate bronze medals may also be sold to cover costs.
Potential Benefits
- Honors the legacy of Muhammad Ali, a significant figure in sports, civil rights, and humanitarian efforts.
- Recognizes Ali's impact beyond athletics, highlighting his contributions to social justice and peace.
- Could inspire others to stand up for their beliefs and contribute to society.
- May promote national unity by celebrating a figure admired across different communities.
- Provides a tangible symbol of appreciation for Ali's contributions to the United States.
Potential Disadvantages
- The cost of striking the gold and bronze medals will be borne by the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
- Some may argue that awarding a Congressional Gold Medal to a single individual sets a precedent for similar awards, potentially diluting the honor.
- Others might disagree with some of Ali's stances or actions, leading to controversy over the award.
- The act itself does not address any pressing policy issues or provide direct benefits to the broader population.
- The focus on honoring an individual may divert attention from systemic issues that need addressing.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The act appears to align with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly in recognizing contributions to American society and promoting values of freedom and justice. While the Constitution does not explicitly address the awarding of medals, Congress's power to legislate on matters of national interest is broadly defined in Article I, Section 8. The act does not 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).