Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act
Summary
The Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act directs the Architect of the Capitol to create a time capsule commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. Congressional leadership will determine the contents, which must be made of durable materials. The time capsule will be buried at the Capitol Visitor Center and is to be opened on July 4th, 2276.
Expected Effects
This act will result in the creation and burial of a time capsule intended to represent the 119th Congress to future generations. The contents, determined by congressional leaders, will offer a glimpse into the era's values and priorities. The act also provides a symbolic link between the semiquincentennial and tricentennial celebrations.
Potential Benefits
- Preserves a snapshot of the 119th Congress for future generations.
- Encourages reflection on American history and values.
- Creates a tangible link between the present and the future.
- May inspire civic engagement and historical awareness.
- Provides a unique educational resource for future historians.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The cost of creating and maintaining the time capsule is relatively small but could be allocated elsewhere.
- The selection of contents is subject to the biases and priorities of current congressional leadership.
- The long timeframe until the capsule is opened means its relevance to future societies is uncertain.
- The act itself has no immediate impact on current societal problems.
- Potential for disagreement over the contents and their representation of the era.
Constitutional Alignment
The act aligns with the general powers of Congress as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. While not directly related to any specific enumerated power, the act can be seen as an exercise of Congress's implied powers to commemorate historical events and promote civic engagement. The act does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional limitations or individual rights.
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).