After 16 years of work by Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and other lawmakers, a bill that would create a commission to facilitate the creation and maintenance of a National Women’s History Museum is headed to the president for approval.
Blackburn worked with Reps. Carolyn Maloney (D- N.Y.) and Eleanor Norton (D-D.C.), and Sens. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.) to bring the bill to fuition.
“The legacies of women who paved the way before us and helped shape our nation deserve to be preserved and shared with our citizens,” Blackburn said. “I am honored to have worked with Rep. Maloney and Senators Collins and Mikulski to push this legislation across the finish line so that these stories can inspire future generations by illustrating how the bravery, patriotism and perseverance of our nation’s women can truly make a difference. We look forward to this bill being signed into law by the president.”
The commission would consist of an eight-member council that would present a report laying out the creation of the National Women’s History Museum. The council would mantain the museum. The Congressional Budget Office said the commission and museum would not have a significant impact on federal spending.
“Women’s history is American history,” Mikulski said. “Women have been trailblazers throughout our history, using grit, passion and determination to seize the day and to make a difference. We must not only honor the past – we must learn from it. A National Women’s History Museum will be a fitting tribute to recognize their lasting legacy while inspiring future generations of women and girls.”