# Plain Language Summary: Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act

This bill authorizes Congress to award a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal to Muhammad Ali in recognition of his lifetime achievements and contributions to the nation. Since Muhammad Ali passed away in 2016, the medal would be presented to his wife, Lonnie Ali, who would receive it on his behalf. The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors the United States can bestow, and it's typically awarded to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to American society.

The bill details Ali's remarkable legacy both inside and outside the boxing ring. It highlights his three heavyweight boxing championships, his role as a civil rights champion during a turbulent era, and his courageous stand against the Vietnam War based on his religious and moral beliefs—a position that was ultimately vindicated by the Supreme Court. Beyond sports, the bill emphasizes his humanitarian work, including his efforts to free American hostages during the Gulf War, his role as a United Nations Messenger of Peace, and his extensive charitable work supporting organizations that help children, people with disabilities, and those affected by Parkinson's disease, which he himself battled in his later years.

From a practical standpoint, this bill has minimal direct impact on everyday Americans. The main action is ceremonial—Congress will commission the Treasury Department to design and strike a gold medal. The Treasury can also produce and sell bronze duplicate medals to the public to cover the costs of creating the original medal. Any money made from selling these bronze copies goes back into the U.S. Mint's budget. Essentially, this is Congress formally recognizing Ali's extraordinary impact on American history and values through an official honor.

Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act

Carson, André

Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act This bill provides for the posthumous award of a Congressional Gold Medal to Muhammad Ali. There is authorized to be charged against the U.S. Mint Public Enterprise Fund such amounts as may be necessary to pay for the costs of the medals struck under this bill. Sums received from the sale of duplicate bronze medals authorized by this bill shall be deposited into that fund.