9/11 Memorial and Museum Act
The 9/11 Memorial and Museum Act would provide a one-time federal grant to the operator of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum at the World Trade Center. The grant, awarded by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), would range from $5 million to $10 million and be used exclusively for operation, security, and maintenance of the memorial and museum. The grant is contingent on the eligible entity (a registered 501(c)(3) organization operating the memorial) submitting a qualifying application and meeting specific criteria. In return, the recipient would offer free admission to certain groups (active/retired military, first responders from 9/11, and families of victims), provide dedicated free public hours, and undergo annual federal audits with public disclosure. The bill also requires annual reporting to Congress on fund use and would not authorize any additional funds beyond this one-time grant, with DHS overseeing and auditing as required.
Key Points
- 1One-time grant: DHS would award a grant between $5,000,000 and $10,000,000 to the eligible entity to fund operation, security, and maintenance of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum.
- 2Eligibility and timing: The grant is for an organization that operates the memorial/museum and is a 501(c)(3); a completed application is required, and the grant would be awarded within 90 days after a completed submission, subject to appropriations.
- 3Conditions on receipt: The recipient must provide free admission to active/retired members of the Armed Forces, 9/11 registered first responders, and victims’ families; must establish dedicated free admission hours at least once a week; and must allow annual federal audits of financial statements, with results made public.
- 4Grant criteria: The amount is determined based on needs, safety and security capabilities, visitor reach, the ability to preserve facilities, educate future generations, and expand access for economically disadvantaged visitors.
- 5Reporting: The recipient must, within 90 days after the end of each fiscal year, report to designated Senate and House committees on funds obligated/expenditures, purposes, and any other information the Secretary requires for administering the grant.