Ranking Member Morelle Delivers Floor Remarks on H.R. 469
WASHINGTON - Rep. Joe Morelle (NY-25), the top Democrat on the Committee on House Administration, delivered a floor speech in support of H.R. 469. The following remarks are as prepared for delivery:
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I yield myself such time as I may consume.
"Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 469.
"This bipartisan legislation would authorize the Architect of the Capitol to bury a time capsule commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 2026, to be opened on our nation's 500th anniversary, in the year 2276.
"The items in the capsule will be determined by bipartisan, bicameral Congressional leaders and include written materials relating to the anniversary, representations of notable legislative and institutional milestones, and a message from this Congress to our future colleagues in the 244th Congress.
"The upcoming anniversary marks a powerful testament to the resilience of the American experiment. Our nation has faced countless tests to our strength and unity, including a civil war, two world wars, natural disasters, and more.
"Yet, through each challenge, this country has stood strong and remains committed to fulfilling the ideals set forth in the Declaration of Independence nearly 250 years ago.
"As we navigate a time of deep division, partisanship, and growing threats to the values that sustain our democracy - this anniversary serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to uphold the values of liberty and equality championed by our Founding Fathers.
"I want to extend my thanks to the Semiquincentennial Commission for its leadership in planning for this momentous occasion, and I particularly commend Congresswoman Watson Coleman for her introduction of this measure. I would also like to acknowledge the service of my fellow New Yorker, former Representative Joe Crowley, who has lent his time and talents to the work of the Commission.
"I look forward to seeing the items chosen for the time capsule and recommend my colleagues support this measure.
"Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I reserve the balance of my time."
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