October 7 Gold Medal Act
Summary
The October 7 Gold Medal Act authorizes the presentation of a Congressional Gold Medal to the American hostages and victims of the October 7, 2023, attacks. It recognizes their suffering and sacrifice. The medal will be displayed at the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia.
The Act directs the Secretary of the Treasury to strike the gold medal and duplicates in bronze for sale to the public. Proceeds from the sale of the bronze medals will be deposited into the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund.
The bill also includes findings regarding the attacks, the number of Americans killed and taken hostage, and the conditions they endured.
Expected Effects
This act will primarily serve as a symbolic gesture of recognition and remembrance. It formally acknowledges the suffering and resilience of the American victims and hostages of the October 7th attacks. The display of the medal will ensure their stories are remembered.
It will also provide a tangible symbol of national gratitude and solidarity. The act may offer some solace to the families affected by the tragedy.
Economically, the bill authorizes the use of funds from the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund to cover the costs of the medals.
Potential Benefits
- Provides national recognition to victims and hostages of the October 7th attacks.
- Offers a symbol of support and remembrance for the families affected.
- Preserves the memory of the events and the individuals involved through museum display.
- Allows the public to purchase bronze duplicates, fostering a sense of connection and remembrance.
- Demonstrates national unity and resolve in the face of terrorism.
Potential Disadvantages
- The Act does not directly address any material needs of the victims or their families beyond symbolic recognition.
- The cost of striking the medals will be borne by the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund, potentially diverting resources from other mint projects.
- The focus on a specific event might overshadow other instances of American citizens being victimized by terrorism abroad.
- The Act does not offer any concrete measures to prevent similar events from occurring in the future.
- The symbolic nature of the act may be perceived as insufficient by some, given the magnitude of the suffering endured.
Constitutional Alignment
The October 7 Gold Medal Act appears to align with the spirit of the Constitution, particularly the Preamble's goal to "insure domestic Tranquility" and "promote the general Welfare." By honoring victims of a terrorist attack, the government is arguably fostering a sense of national unity and support for those affected by violence.
Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to coin money and regulate its value, which implicitly includes the power to create commemorative medals. The act does not infringe upon any specific rights or liberties guaranteed by the Bill of Rights.
However, some might argue that the act could be seen as favoring a particular group or event, potentially raising concerns under the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment if not carefully balanced with recognition of other victims of similar tragedies.
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).