9/11 Memorial and Museum Act
Summary
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum Act aims to provide a one-time grant to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center. The grant is intended for the operation, security, and maintenance of the memorial and museum. The bill specifies eligibility criteria, grant amount limits (between $5 million and $10 million), and conditions for receiving the grant, including free admission for certain groups and public audits.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would provide financial support to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum. This would help ensure its continued operation and ability to commemorate the events of September 11, 2001, and honor the victims. The grant would be overseen by the Secretary of Homeland Security, with reporting requirements to relevant congressional committees.
Potential Benefits
- Provides financial support for the operation, security, and maintenance of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.
- Ensures free admission for active and retired members of the Armed Forces, first responders to the 9/11 attacks, and family members of victims.
- Mandates dedicated free admission hours for the general public at least once a week.
- Supports the preservation of the facilities and grounds of the memorial and museum.
- Aids in educating future generations about the events of 9/11.
Potential Disadvantages
- The bill relies on future appropriations, so funding is not guaranteed.
- The grant is a one-time allocation, potentially creating future funding gaps.
- The bill does not address long-term financial sustainability for the memorial and museum.
- The grant is limited to a specific purpose, potentially restricting flexibility in addressing other needs.
- The bill could be perceived as prioritizing a single institution over other worthy causes.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it supports a memorial and museum that serves a public educational purpose. Congress has the power to appropriate funds for purposes deemed to be in the public interest. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 provides Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.
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).