To providing access to certain memorials on Federal property during Government shutdown, and for other purposes.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Goodlander, Maggie [D-NH-2]
- Committees
- Oversight and Government Reform Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 30, 2026
Bottom line
The bill aims to ensure public access to specific non-federally funded memorials during government shutdowns by classifying related federal employees as essential personnel.
What it actually does
This bill mandates that during a lapse in appropriations (government shutdown), federal agencies must provide public access to memorials that are not federally funded but are typically accessible through federal property. It also designates federal employees whose duties relate to providing this access as 'excepted' from furlough, ensuring they continue working and are paid during a shutdown.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill ensures that important sites of commemoration, often maintained by private funds, remain open to the public even when federal operations are disrupted. They contend it respects veterans and other groups honored by these memorials, preventing unnecessary closures that cause public frustration and inconvenience during shutdowns.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that expanding the definition of 'excepted' employees could undermine the intended fiscal pressure of a government shutdown, potentially making future shutdowns less impactful. They might also raise concerns about the precedent of designating specific access roles as essential, potentially leading to a broader redefinition of 'emergency services' under existing law.
The bill is very short and clearly written, making it easy for any reader to understand its provisions quickly and thoroughly.
Section 1(a) and 1(b)
Mandatory Access to Memorials and Excepted Employee Status During Shutdowns
This provision requires federal agencies, during a government shutdown, to ensure public access to any memorial that is not funded by the federal government but is typically accessed through federal land or facilities. To facilitate this, it classifies federal employees whose official duties involve providing this access as 'excepted' from furlough under 31 U.S.C. 1342, meaning they must continue working and will be paid, overriding standard shutdown procedures for non-essential personnel.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision prevents the arbitrary closure of cherished public memorials, particularly those honoring veterans, during government shutdowns. They emphasize that these memorials are often privately funded and should not be collateral damage in federal budget disputes, and that ensuring access is a matter of respect and public service.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that designating these employees as 'excepted' could be seen as an incremental erosion of the shutdown's intended impact, potentially reducing pressure on Congress to resolve budget impasses. They may also argue that the definition of 'emergencies involving the safety of human life or the protection of property' is being stretched beyond its original intent.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the public's desire for uninterrupted access to memorials with the traditional operational constraints and political leverage associated with government shutdowns. It creates a tension between maintaining public services and the fiscal discipline implied by furloughs.