9/11 Legacy Preservation Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Kean, Thomas H. [R-NJ-7]
- Committees
- Committee on House Administration (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 10, 2026
Bottom line
This bill creates a dedicated program to preserve the personal accounts of 9/11 survivors for historical and public access, ensuring future generations have direct testimonies of the tragic events.
What it actually does
This bill establishes an oral history program within the Library of Congress's American Folklife Center to collect video and audio recordings, as well as written materials, from survivors of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. The collected materials will be cataloged and made publicly available through the National Digital Library and other appropriate methods. The program is authorized to accept private donations and receives an initial federal appropriation.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that preserving the oral histories of 9/11 survivors is crucial for national memory, historical research, and educating future generations about the attacks. They emphasize the immeasurable value of first-hand accounts and the importance of never forgetting the events of that day, highlighting that these personal stories offer unique insights into human experience and societal impact.
Opponents contend
No organized opposition is typically raised against efforts to preserve historical accounts of national tragedies. While potential critics might raise concerns about the scope of the program, the methodology, or the long-term cost, the core objective of memorializing 9/11 experiences is generally supported across the political spectrum.
The bill is very short and easy to read, allowing ample time for public consideration of its straightforward provisions.
Section 3(a)
Creation of 9/11 Oral History Program
This section mandates the Director of the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress to establish a program. This program will collect video and audio recordings of personal histories from 9/11 survivors, create a public collection (including a catalog and index) accessible via the National Digital Library, and solicit and catalog relevant written materials like letters and diaries.
Supporters argue
Supporters contend that this program is essential for capturing unique, irreplaceable first-person accounts before they are lost to time, ensuring a comprehensive historical record for future generations.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against the establishment of such a historical preservation program, as its goals are widely seen as beneficial for national memory.
Tradeoffs
The primary tension involves balancing comprehensive collection with resource availability, ensuring that the program can effectively reach and record a diverse range of survivor experiences.
Section 3(b) and 3(c)
Partnerships and Prioritization for Collection
This provision allows the Director to partner with other government and private entities to carry out the collection activities, and to consult with interested persons to develop guidelines. It also specifies that collection should begin as soon as practicable, with an attempt to collect from the oldest survivors first.
Section 4
Acceptance of Donations and Dedicated Fund
This section authorizes the Librarian of Congress to solicit and accept donations (funds and in-kind contributions) for the program. It establishes a separate gift account in the Treasury specifically for these donations, ensuring that all donated funds are used exclusively for the 9/11 oral history program.
Section 5
Funding Authorization
This section authorizes an appropriation of $250,000 for fiscal year 2026 and "such sums as may be necessary" for each succeeding fiscal year to carry out the Act. This provides the initial federal funding framework for the program.