S.366 - Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.366, the Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act, proposes 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 the presentation of the medal, and directs the Secretary of the Treasury to strike the gold medal and duplicates in bronze.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would result in the striking of a Congressional Gold Medal in honor of Muhammad Ali. This medal would then be presented to his wife, Lonnie Ali. The act also allows for the creation and sale of bronze duplicates to the public.
Potential Benefits
- Recognizes and honors the legacy of Muhammad Ali, a significant figure in sports and civil rights.
- Highlights Ali's contributions to racial harmony, human rights, and peace.
- Promotes the values of courage, conviction, and humanitarianism.
- Provides a tangible symbol of national appreciation for Ali's impact on American society.
- Could inspire others to emulate Ali's commitment to social justice and equality.
Potential Disadvantages
- The cost of striking the gold medal and bronze duplicates will be charged against the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
- The bill does not address any specific pressing issues facing the American people.
- The act is primarily symbolic and may not have a direct impact on policy or legislation.
- Some may argue that other deserving individuals have not received similar recognition.
- The focus on one individual may overshadow other important historical figures and events.
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 equality and justice. While the Constitution does not explicitly address the awarding of medals, Congress's power to legislate on matters of national interest, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, implicitly allows for such symbolic gestures. The First Amendment's guarantee of freedom of expression also resonates with Ali's courageous stances on civil rights and his opposition to the Vietnam War.
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).