To prohibit the demolition of Presidential memorials.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Pingree, Chellie [D-ME-1]
- Committees
- Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 28, 2026
Bottom line
This bill establishes a federal legislative safeguard, requiring an Act of Congress to authorize the demolition of any federally designated Presidential memorial.
What it actually does
This bill defines "demolish" as the intentional razing, destroying, or wrecking of an entire building or structure or a substantial portion thereof. It then prohibits the demolition of any memorial honoring a President of the United States that was originally designated by an Act of Congress, unless a subsequent Act of Congress specifically authorizes such demolition.
Proponents argue
Supporters would argue this bill protects historical integrity and ensures that significant national monuments, particularly those honoring past presidents, are not unilaterally removed or destroyed without broad legislative consensus. They might emphasize the importance of preserving national heritage and preventing politically motivated or transient decisions from impacting enduring symbols.
Opponents contend
Critics might contend that this bill over-federalizes decisions that could be better handled at local or state levels, or through existing administrative processes. They might argue it creates unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles for potential future changes to memorials, even if those changes are widely supported by local communities or for practical reasons like structural integrity or redesign.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its core purpose quickly.
Section 1(a) and 1(b)
Prohibition on Demolition of Presidential Memorials
This provision first defines "demolish" to mean the intentional destruction of an entire or substantial portion of a building or structure. It then establishes a clear rule that any memorial dedicated to a U.S. President, if that memorial was originally designated by an Act of Congress, cannot be demolished unless another Act of Congress specifically grants authorization for its removal or destruction.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision ensures that memorials of national significance, particularly those honoring U.S. Presidents, are afforded the highest level of protection against arbitrary or politically motivated demolition. They believe it upholds the historical and cultural value of these sites by requiring a robust legislative process for any changes.
Critics contend
Opponents might argue that this provision creates an overly rigid and potentially cumbersome process for managing national memorials. They could contend that it removes flexibility from federal agencies or local authorities who might need to make practical decisions regarding maintenance, safety, or even re-evaluation of historical figures, forcing every such decision through a potentially slow and politicized congressional vote.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the desire for strong historical preservation with concerns about legislative efficiency and local control. It prioritizes a high bar for demolition, potentially at the cost of administrative flexibility or responsiveness to evolving public sentiment or practical needs.