Equality in the Halls of Congress Act
- Sponsor
- Del. Moylan, James C. [R-GU-At Large]
- Committees
- Committee on House Administration (primary)
- Last action
- Jan 14, 2026
Bottom line
The bill expands symbolic representation in the National Statuary Hall Collection to include U.S. territories and commonwealths, granting them equal standing with states in this aspect of congressional recognition.
What it actually does
This bill authorizes the five U.S. territories and commonwealths—American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands—to contribute statues to the National Statuary Hall Collection in the U.S. Capitol. It grants them the same authority as states to furnish statues, subject to existing specifications, and amends federal law to include these jurisdictions in the definition of "State" for relevant sections concerning the collection. The Architect of the Capitol is directed to implement these changes.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill rectifies a long-standing inequity by allowing U.S. territories and commonwealths, whose residents are U.S. citizens or nationals, to honor their historical figures alongside those from states. They contend it is a matter of dignity and recognition, reflecting the diverse contributions of all parts of the United States to the nation's history and culture. This inclusion would visually affirm the integral role these jurisdictions play within the American fabric.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while symbolic, this bill does not address more pressing issues of political representation or economic disparity faced by territories. Some might also raise concerns about the potential costs associated with commissioning and installing new statues, particularly if federal funds were to be involved, or question the appropriateness of expanding the collection without a broader review of its purpose or capacity.
The bill is very short and straightforward, allowing for a quick and complete understanding of its provisions.
Section 2(a)
Authorization for Territories to Furnish Statues
This section explicitly grants American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands the authority to provide and furnish statues for the National Statuary Hall Collection. These statues must adhere to the same specifications and legal requirements that apply to statues provided by U.S. states, ensuring consistency in the collection's standards.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is a crucial step towards recognizing the full breadth of American history and the contributions of U.S. territories. It provides a visible symbol of their inclusion and equal standing within the nation's cultural narrative, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among territorial residents.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against the symbolic inclusion of territories in cultural collections, though some might generally question the allocation of resources for such projects if federal funding were explicitly mandated for statue creation (which it is not in this bill).
Tradeoffs
The primary tension is between the symbolic recognition offered by the bill and the broader, more substantive issues of political and economic equality that territories often seek. While this bill addresses a symbolic aspect, it does not directly impact voting rights or economic development.
Section 2(b)
Conforming Amendment to Definition of "State"
This section amends Section 311 of the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2001 (2 U.S.C. 2132) by adding a new subsection. This new subsection explicitly includes American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands in the definition of "State" for the purposes of that specific section, ensuring consistency in legal application regarding the Statuary Hall Collection.
Section 2(c)
Authority of the Architect of the Capitol
This section grants the Architect of the Capitol the necessary authority to take measures to acquire the statues from the territories and commonwealths and to implement the provisions of this Act, including actions taken on behalf of the Joint Committee of Congress on the Library. This ensures the administrative capacity to execute the bill's intent.