S.44 - To direct the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library to procure a statue of Benjamin Franklin for placement in the United States Capitol. (119th Congress)
Summary
This bill, S.44, directs the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library to procure a statue of Benjamin Franklin for placement in the United States Capitol. The statue must be obtained by December 31, 2025, and placed in a suitable location accessible to the public by December 31, 2026.
The bill specifies that the Joint Committee will determine the terms and conditions for obtaining the statue, consistent with applicable law. The statue's placement will be in a location accessible during guided tours provided by the Office of the Capitol Visitor Center.
This action aims to honor Benjamin Franklin's contributions to the United States by providing a permanent display of his likeness within the Capitol building.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage will result in the acquisition and installation of a statue of Benjamin Franklin in the US Capitol. This will provide a tangible representation of Franklin's historical significance for visitors and citizens.
It will also involve the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library in overseeing the procurement and placement process. The Office of the Capitol Visitor Center will be responsible for ensuring public accessibility during tours.
Ultimately, the bill seeks to enhance the educational and cultural experience for those visiting the Capitol.
Potential Benefits
- Honoring a Founding Father: Recognizes Benjamin Franklin's significant contributions to American history and ideals.
- Educational Opportunity: Provides a visual and tangible representation of history for visitors, especially students.
- Cultural Enrichment: Enhances the artistic and cultural value of the Capitol building.
- Increased Tourism: May attract more visitors interested in American history and culture.
- Symbolic Representation: Reinforces the values and principles Franklin embodied.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Cost: Procuring and placing the statue will incur expenses for the government.
- Potential Controversy: Selection of the artist and design could be subject to debate.
- Space Allocation: Placement of the statue may require reallocation of space within the Capitol.
- Maintenance: The statue will require ongoing maintenance and upkeep.
- Missed Opportunity Cost: Funds spent on the statue could be allocated to other projects.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the general powers of Congress as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to control federal property and legislate for the general welfare. While not explicitly mentioned, the placement of statues within the Capitol falls under Congress's implied powers to manage its buildings and grounds.
Furthermore, the bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations. It does not violate the First Amendment, as it does not establish a religion or infringe upon freedom of speech. It also does not violate any other amendments related to individual rights or state powers.
In summary, the bill's objective and provisions are consistent with the constitutional framework governing the powers of Congress.
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).