Bill lets federal government fund Theodore Roosevelt library in North Dakota

What does this do?

The bill authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to give up to $50 million in grants to the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation to help build the library in Medora, North Dakota, and fund preservation and education programs. It also allows federal agencies to loan Roosevelt-related artifacts to the Foundation for free. Federal funds cannot be released until the Foundation proves it raised at least $100 million from non-federal sources, and money cannot cover daily operations or maintenance.

Who does it affect?

The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation, the state of North Dakota, and federal taxpayers are directly affected. Future visitors and researchers who may use the library are also affected.

Why does it matter?

The federal government would not operate or manage the library, leaving that responsibility to the private Foundation unless it requests federal help. This ties any federal spending to substantial prior private and state fundraising.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Up to $50 million in federal grants
• Requires $100 million raised first
• Not for operations or maintenance