H.R. 9600119th CongressIntroduced Jul 6, 2026

Common Sense 250 Act of 2026

IntroducedPublic Lands and Natural ResourcesNarrow

Sponsor: Rep. Raskin, Jamie [D-MD-8]
Committees: Natural Resources Committee (primary)
Last action: Sep 15, 2026

Bottom line

This bill designates a specific, prominent location in Washington, D.C., for a previously authorized memorial to Thomas Paine by overriding a standard procedural restriction.

What it actually does

This bill approves a specific location within "Area I" of Washington, D.C., for a commemorative work dedicated to Thomas Paine. It explicitly waives a requirement from the Commemorative Works Act (40 U.S.C. 8908(b)(1)) to allow this placement, building upon a previous authorization for the memorial. This action ensures the memorial can be situated in a prominent area reserved for works of preeminent historical significance.

Section 2

Approval of Commemorative Work Location for Thomas Paine

prominently featuredstraightforward

This section approves the placement of a commemorative work honoring Thomas Paine within "Area I" of Washington, D.C. Area I is generally reserved for commemorative works of preeminent historical and lasting significance. The bill specifically overrides a requirement in section 8908(b)(1) of title 40, United States Code, which typically restricts the placement of new commemorative works in Area I unless certain conditions are met, thereby facilitating the memorial's placement in this prominent location. The memorial itself was authorized by section 709 of division DD of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023.

FOUND

The bill explicitly waives the requirements described in section 8908(b)(1) of title 40, United States Code, which typically governs the placement of commemorative works in Area I.

Section 2, introductory text and paragraph (1)

Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice for addressing specific statutory requirements directly, rather than being evasive. It's a direct override to achieve a specific outcome.

Case for: Supporters would argue that Thomas Paine's contributions to American independence and political thought are of such 'preeminent historical and lasting significance' that his memorial warrants placement in Area I, and this waiver simply streamlines the process for a figure whose importance is undeniable.

Case against: Critics might contend that waiving established procedures, even for a worthy figure, sets a precedent that could undermine the careful planning and review process intended by the Commemorative Works Act for Area I, potentially leading to a proliferation of memorials in prime locations without adequate scrutiny.

Estimated impact: Facilitates the placement of one specific memorial in a prominent location, potentially setting a minor precedent for future waivers of similar procedural requirements.

About this analysis. AI-Generated from the official bill text and available committee reports. Gaps in available data are noted explicitly. Verify important details with the official Congress.gov record.