Bill would bar tearing down presidential memorials created by Act of Congress
On the floor calendarS. 5603Latest action
Sponsor: Jeff Merkley · Senator · OR
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: Protecting Presidential Memorials Act
119th Congress
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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S 5603 would make it illegal to demolish a presidential memorial that Congress created by law, unless a new law specifically allows it.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill would make it illegal to tear down a memorial honoring a U.S. president if Congress officially created that memorial through a law. The only way to demolish one would be another law passed by Congress that specifically allows it. "Demolish" means intentionally razing, destroying, or wrecking an entire building or structure, or a big part of one.
Who does it affect?
It affects federal agencies that manage national memorials, such as the National Park Service, and anyone who visits or cares about these sites. It covers only memorials designated by an Act of Congress, not those created by a state, a city, or a private group.
Why does it matter?
Agencies or officials responsible for these sites could not tear them down on their own authority. The bill says nothing about repairs, renovations, or smaller changes, and it does not list specific memorials, set penalties, or say who would enforce it.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Placed on Calendar Senate” text of Sep 30, 2026.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
Where does it stand?
- IntroducedSep 29, 2026
- Senate committee
- Senate voteYou are here · Sep 30, 2026
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: it's on the . If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Read the second time. Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 688.