The Capitol LedgerEvery move in Congress, on the record
HomeBillsRecordsLedger AI

The Capitol Ledger

Built from the Congressional Record and Congress.gov. Every summary links to its source.

AboutFAQFeedbackTerms of ServicePrivacy Policy
Follow us onlineInstagram

Summaries are AI-generated from primary sources. Verify anything important against the original record.

The Capitol Ledger

Built from the Congressional Record and Congress.gov. Every summary links to its source.

The projectAboutFAQFeedback
LegalTerms of ServicePrivacy Policy
Follow us onlineInstagram

Summaries are AI-generated from primary sources. Verify anything important against the original record.

All bills
S. 734·119th Congress·Introduced Feb 25, 2025

Edward J. Dwight, Jr. Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025

IntroducedScience, Technology, CommunicationsNarrow
View bill text
Sponsor
Sen. Bennet, Michael F. [D-CO]
Committees
Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee (primary)
Last action
Feb 25, 2025

Bottom line

This bill awards a Congressional Gold Medal to Edward J. Dwight, Jr., honoring his pioneering role as the first African American astronaut candidate and his subsequent artistic and historical contributions.

What it actually does

This bill authorizes the striking and presentation of a Congressional Gold Medal to Edward J. Dwight, Jr., in recognition of his historic service as the first African American astronaut candidate, his resilience in the face of racism, and his significant contributions to art and Black history. It also directs the Secretary of the Treasury to design the medal and allows for the sale of bronze duplicates to the public to cover production costs.

Section 3(a)

Presentation of Congressional Gold Medal

prominently featuredstraightforward

This provision directs the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President pro tempore of the Senate to arrange for the presentation of a single gold medal to Edward J. Dwight, Jr. The medal is intended to recognize his historic service as the first African American astronaut candidate, his example of excellence during times of struggle and overt racism, and his significant contributions to art and Black history, including his prolific sculpting career and numerous awards. This honor acknowledges his trailblazing efforts and enduring legacy.

Section 3(b)

Design and Production of the Gold Medal

mentioned in summarystraightforward

This section mandates the Secretary of the Treasury to design and strike the gold medal. The design must incorporate suitable emblems, devices, and inscriptions that appropriately honor Edward J. Dwight, Jr., and specifically include an image and his full name. This ensures the medal accurately reflects his achievements and is produced to a high standard, serving as a lasting tribute to his contributions to science, history, and art.

Section 4

Authorization for Duplicate Bronze Medals

mentioned in summarystraightforward

This provision authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to strike and sell bronze duplicates of the gold medal to the public. The pricing of these duplicates is set to cover all associated production costs, including labor, materials, dies, the use of machinery, and overhead expenses. This allows the public to acquire a commemorative item while ensuring the program is self-sustaining financially and does not incur additional costs to taxpayers.

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.

On this page

  • Executive summary
  • Key provisions
Ask Ledger AI about this