No Funding to Honor Crime Scenes Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Cornyn, John [R-TX]
- Committees
- Energy and Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Mar 25, 2026
Bottom line
This bill seeks to eliminate a national monument and reallocate its funding to a law enforcement program, sparking debate over historical recognition and resource allocation.
What it actually does
This bill proposes to abolish the Cesar E. Chavez National Monument in California, which was established by Presidential Proclamation in 2012. Upon its abolishment, any federal funds previously appropriated for the monument that remain unobligated would be transferred and made available to support the DNA Analysis Backlog Elimination Act of 2000.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that the monument's existence is inappropriate due to alleged controversies associated with Cesar Chavez, as implied by the bill's short title, and that redirecting funds to critical law enforcement initiatives like DNA analysis is a more responsible and impactful use of taxpayer money.
Opponents contend
Opponents contend that abolishing the monument disrespects Cesar Chavez's legacy as a pivotal civil rights and labor leader, erases an important part of American history, and that the funds should remain dedicated to preserving cultural heritage and educating the public about his contributions.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, allowing for a quick and thorough understanding of its provisions within a minute.
Section 2(a)
Abolishment of Cesar E. Chavez National Monument
This section legally terminates the Cesar E. Chavez National Monument, which was established by Presidential Proclamation 8884 on October 8, 2012. Upon enactment, the monument would cease to exist as a federally recognized and protected site, removing its national monument status.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that the monument's designation was controversial or unwarranted, and its abolishment aligns with a re-evaluation of federal land use and historical recognition priorities, particularly in light of the concerns implied by the bill's short title.
Critics contend
Opponents assert that abolishing the monument diminishes the historical significance of Cesar Chavez's contributions to civil rights and labor movements, and represents an attempt to erase or downplay his legacy and the struggles he championed.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies between honoring a historical figure through federal designation and differing interpretations of that figure's legacy or the appropriateness of the monument's continued existence.
Section 2(b)
Defunding and Redirection of Unobligated Funds
This section mandates that any federal funds previously allocated to the Cesar E. Chavez National Monument that have not yet been spent or committed will be prohibited from being used for the monument's operation or maintenance. Instead, these unobligated funds will be transferred and made available to support section 2 of the DNA Analysis Backlog Elimination Act of 2000, which funds DNA analysis and forensic science programs.