H.R. 5510: United States–Mexican War Memorial Act of 2025

This bill, known as the United States–Mexican War Memorial Act of 2025, proposes to co-designate the Arlington Memorial Bridge as the "United States–Mexican War Memorial." Here are the key points regarding what the bill intends to accomplish:

Co-Designation of the Arlington Memorial Bridge

The bill aims to officially recognize the Arlington Memorial Bridge, which connects the District of Columbia to Virginia, as a memorial dedicated to the United States–Mexican War (1846-1848). This designation is meant to honor the historical significance of the war and its aftermath, including the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which contributed to territorial changes in North America.

Purpose and Findings

The purpose is to provide a national focus for commemorating the United States–Mexican War, which Congress recognizes as a pivotal moment in American history that has been underrepresented in national commemorations. Key findings of the bill include:

• The war significantly impacted American military and political life.
• Dedicated national recognition for such historical events is lacking in the National Capital region.
• Commemorative actions can enhance historical literacy at minimal cost and without major physical changes to existing structures.

Interpretive Enhancements

The bill allows for the installation of limited interpretative enhancements related to the memorialization of the United States–Mexican War. This includes:

• Installing signage and plaques that provide information about the war, its causes, and its consequences.
• Implementing landscaping alterations that are consistent with the bridge's historical character.

Administration and Ceremonies

The administration of this designation would be handled by the Secretary of the Interior, through the National Park Service. The Secretary would also be permitted to plan and execute public ceremonies to commemorate the co-designation of the bridge.

Funding and Contributions

Key aspects regarding funding include:

• No Federal funds are to be used for the design, installation, or maintenance of the commemorative elements.
• The bill allows for the acceptance of non-Federal funds and donations to support the enhancements.
• Any remaining funds after expenses will be deposited in a separate National Park Foundation account.

Regulations and Compliance

The commemorative enhancements authorized by this bill must comply with existing laws, such as the National Historic Preservation Act and the National Environmental Policy Act. Additionally:

• The official name of the Arlington Memorial Bridge will remain unchanged.
• Existing transportation functions of the bridge will not be affected by the designation.

Exclusions

Specific provisions of existing commemorative laws will not apply to the site selection for this memorial designation, leading to more streamlined processes. However, the bill maintains that these changes should not interfere with the integrity of existing commemorative works or the bridge itself.

Relevant Companies

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