To obtain and direct the placement in the Capitol or on the Capitol Grounds of a statue to honor American humanitarian and star athlete Roberto Clemente of Puerto Rico.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Bilirakis, Gus M. [R-FL-12]
- Committees
- Committee on House Administration (primary)
- Last action
- Aug 20, 2026
Bottom line
This bill seeks to commemorate Roberto Clemente Walker's legacy as a humanitarian and athlete with a statue in the U.S. Capitol, funded by the Capitol Preservation Fund.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Joint Committee on the Library to obtain a statue honoring American humanitarian and star athlete Roberto Clemente Walker within two years of enactment. It further mandates the Architect of the Capitol to permanently install this statue in an appropriate location within the U.S. Capitol or on the Capitol Grounds. The bill also authorizes the use of up to $500,000 from the Capitol Preservation Fund to cover the costs of obtaining and installing the statue.
Proponents argue
Supporters emphasize Clemente's exceptional athletic achievements, his pioneering role as a Latino athlete facing discrimination, and his profound humanitarian efforts, particularly his ultimate sacrifice in delivering aid to earthquake victims. They argue that a statue would appropriately honor a national hero who embodies sportsmanship, community service, and dedication to others, serving as an inspiration for future generations and providing important representation for the Puerto Rican and broader Latino communities.
Opponents contend
Direct opposition to honoring a widely respected figure like Roberto Clemente is unlikely. Any potential, though rare, arguments might focus on the precedent of placing statues of non-political figures in the Capitol, the use of federal funds (even if from a dedicated preservation fund) for such purposes, or the specific selection process for artists, rather than on the honoree himself.
The bill is very short and easy to read, allowing ample time for evaluation.
Section 2(a) and 2(b)
Directing the Acquisition and Placement of a Roberto Clemente Statue
This provision mandates the Joint Committee on the Library to enter into an agreement within two years of enactment to obtain a statue honoring Roberto Clemente Walker. It also directs the Architect of the Capitol to permanently install this statue in an appropriate location within the U.S. Capitol or on its grounds. The Joint Committee is encouraged to consider artists from diverse backgrounds, including the Puerto Rican community, when selecting the artist for the statue.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that placing a statue of Roberto Clemente in the Capitol is a fitting tribute to his unparalleled achievements in baseball and his profound humanitarian commitment, particularly his sacrifice for others. They believe it will inspire future generations and properly recognize a figure who transcended sports to become a symbol of integrity and service, especially for the Puerto Rican and broader Latino communities.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against honoring widely respected figures like Roberto Clemente. Any potential concerns might revolve around the general principle of adding more statues to the Capitol or the specific location chosen, rather than the honoree himself.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension might be the allocation of finite space within the Capitol or on its grounds for new statuary. However, the bill allows for flexibility in location. Another minor tension could be balancing artistic merit with the goal of promoting diversity in the artist selection process.
Section 2(c)
Authorizing Use of Capitol Preservation Fund
This provision authorizes the United States Capitol Preservation Commission to transfer up to $500,000 from the Capitol Preservation Fund to the Joint Committee on the Library and the Architect of the Capitol. These funds are specifically designated for obtaining and installing the statue of Roberto Clemente Walker, overriding a general limitation on the use of this fund for such purposes.