National POW/MIA Memorial and Museum

Summary#

This bill designates the POW/MIA Memorial and Museum in Jacksonville, Florida, as the "National POW/MIA Memorial and Museum." The museum site is described as about 26 acres on POW-MIA Memorial Parkway and is being constructed as of the bill date. The bill lists findings that the museum is meant to honor prisoners of war, those missing in action, and to educate visitors.

The bill requires the museum's Director to send a report to Congress within 90 days after the law is enacted. That report must include: a five-year budget beginning on the date the museum is expected to open; the museum's organizational structure; any bylaws or rules; and a list of any organizations that have accredited the museum. The national designation may be withdrawn if the museum is not operating satisfactorily five years after enactment or if the required report is submitted late.

What it means for you#

• The site in Jacksonville would be officially called the National POW/MIA Memorial and Museum.
• The museum aims to honor former prisoners of war and people who are missing in action, and to provide exhibits, educational programs, and a place for families to tell their stories.
• The museum director must provide Congress with a budget and organizational documents soon after enactment.
• The national designation could be taken away if the museum is not operating satisfactorily within five years or if the report is not filed on time.

Expenses#

The bill requires the museum director to submit a five-year budget in the report, but the bill does not appropriate money or include cost estimates. No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

The bill's findings state that supporters view the memorial and museum as a way to honor prisoners of war and those missing in action, to educate the public, to showcase related history, and to provide a place for families and visitors to remember and learn.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.