To direct the Librarian of Congress to obtain a stained glass panel depicting the seal of the District of Columbia and install the panel among the stained glass panels depicting the seals of States, which overlook the Main Reading Room of the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building.
Summary
H.R. 6308 directs the Librarian of Congress to acquire and install a stained glass panel depicting the seal of the District of Columbia. This panel will be placed among those representing the states in the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Ms. Norton and referred to the Committees on House Administration and Transportation and Infrastructure.
Expected Effects
The bill's passage would result in the District of Columbia's seal being represented alongside the state seals in the Library of Congress. This inclusion could be seen as a symbolic gesture of recognition. It may also prompt discussions about the District's status and representation within the federal government.
Potential Benefits
- Symbolic recognition of the District of Columbia.
- Enhancement of the Library of Congress's aesthetic appeal.
- Promotion of civic engagement and awareness of the District's identity.
- Potential for increased tourism to view the display.
- May encourage further recognition of the District's unique status.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential cost associated with acquiring and installing the stained glass panel.
- May open the door for requests from other territories or entities for similar recognition.
- Could be perceived as a symbolic gesture without addressing substantive issues of representation for the District.
- Possible debate over the appropriateness of equating the District with states.
- Minimal direct impact on the lives of most American citizens.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general powers of Congress to oversee federal properties and institutions. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to exercise exclusive legislation in all cases whatsoever, over such District. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).