1980 "Miracle on Ice" hockey team awarded Congressional Gold Medals

What does this do?

HR 452 awards Congressional Gold Medals to the 20 players and coaching staff of the 1980 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team. Three physical gold medals will be placed on permanent public display at the Lake Placid Olympic Center in New York, the United States Hockey Hall of Fame Museum in Minnesota, and the United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado. The U.S. Mint is authorized to produce and sell bronze copies of the medal to the public at a price that covers production costs.

Who does it affect?

The law directly affects the surviving members of the 1980 team, who receive the honor, and the three museums that will house the medals. Members of the public may purchase bronze versions as collectibles.

Why does it matter?

Congress is recognizing the team's defeat of the heavily favored Soviet Union and subsequent gold medal win over Finland as a moment that lifted American spirits during a difficult period in the country's history. The law does not change taxes, government programs, or everyday rules for ordinary Americans.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Bronze copies sold at production cost
• Sale proceeds go to U.S. Mint fund
• No net taxpayer cost from medal sales

Where does it stand?