Bills of Congress by U.S. Congress

An Act To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 521 Thorn Street in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, as the Mary Elizabeth Bettie Cole Post Office Building.

Summary

H.R. 1461 designates the United States Postal Service facility located at 521 Thorn Street in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, as the "Mary Elizabeth `Bettie' Cole Post Office Building". This act ensures that any reference to this facility in any legal or official document will reflect the new designation. The bill was passed by the House of Representatives on December 9, 2025.

Expected Effects

The primary effect of this bill is to rename a specific post office building in Sewickley, Pennsylvania. This change will be reflected in all official records and documents pertaining to the facility. There are no anticipated changes to the operations or services provided by the post office.

Potential Benefits

  • Honors Mary Elizabeth `Bettie' Cole, potentially a notable local figure.
  • May increase community pride and recognition.
  • Provides a lasting tribute within the community.
  • Symbolic recognition can foster a sense of local identity.
  • No direct financial cost or burden to taxpayers.

Potential Disadvantages

  • Potential administrative costs associated with updating signage and records, though likely minimal.
  • The act itself does not address any significant policy issues or provide tangible benefits beyond symbolic recognition.
  • May be perceived as a low-priority use of congressional time and resources.
  • Could be seen as performative if not accompanied by other meaningful actions to support the community.
  • No direct disadvantages to the American people.

Constitutional Alignment

The act aligns with the legislative powers granted to Congress under Article I, Section 8 of the US Constitution, which includes the power to establish post offices and post roads. Designating a federal building's name falls within the scope of Congress's authority to manage federal property and operations. There are no apparent conflicts with any specific constitutional provisions or amendments.

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).