John Hansen: “Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4583 extends the authorization for the Air Force Memorial Foundation to establish a memorial in the…”

“Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4583 extends the authorization for the Air Force Memorial Foundation to establish a memorial in the District of Columbia or its environs. In December of 1993, authorization was given for the Air Force Memorial Foundation to establish an Air Force memorial to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Air Force. The memorial was to comply with the provisions of the Commemorative Works Act. Among other things, the Commemorate Works Acts provides that the legislative authority for the commemorative work will expire at the end of the 7-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of such authority, unless a construction permit has been issued. To date, no construction permit has been issued. Furthermore, due to unforeseen and lengthy lawsuits, all work, including the fund-raising for the memorial, was put on hold for approximately 3 years. The lawsuits have been settled and work is ready to recommence regarding the memorial. However, due to the delay in the 7-year requirement of the Commemorative Works Act, the authorization for the foundation is about to expire. In fact, the authority will expire on December 2 of this year unless Congress passes a time extension.”