William Lacy Clay Sr. Memorial Stamp Act
- Bill Number
- H.R. 5421
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 1
- Policy Area
- Government Operations and Politics
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2025-09-17: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
- Last Updated
- 2025-09-29T13:24:43Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
The legislation aims to honor the legacy of William Lacy Clay Sr., a former U.S. Congressman from Missouri known for his contributions to civil rights, labor standards, and public service, by authorizing the issuance of a commemorative postage stamp in his name.
Key Provisions
- Findings Section: Congress recognizes Clay Sr.'s life and achievements, including:
- His birth in 1931 in St. Louis, Missouri, and rise from humble beginnings.
- Service in the U.S. Army and 32 years representing Missouri's 1st Congressional District (1969–2001).
- Founding role in the Congressional Black Caucus and advocacy for political representation, equality for African Americans and marginalized groups.
- Sponsorship or management of nearly 300 bills that became law, benefiting women, minorities, veterans, families, the disabled, and union workers.
- Key roles in passing the Family and Medical Leave Act and reforms to the Hatch Act (which regulates political activities of federal employees).
- Authorship of a memoir, Just Permanent Interests, and overall impact on U.S. democracy.
- Stamp Issuance: The Postmaster General (head of the U.S. Postal Service) must issue a commemorative postage stamp honoring Clay Sr.
- The stamp will be in the denomination for first-class mail (up to 1 ounce) with designs determined by the Postmaster General.
- It will be placed on sale as soon as practicable after enactment and remain available for a period set by the Postmaster General.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This bill introduces no major changes to existing laws. It simply authorizes a new commemorative stamp under the U.S. Postal Service's existing authority to issue such items, building on precedents for honoring notable figures without altering postal regulations or broader legal frameworks.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: The U.S. Postal Service will handle design, production, and sales, potentially incurring minor administrative costs but generating revenue from stamp sales. No significant burden on other agencies.
- On Citizens: Provides a symbolic way for the public, especially those interested in civil rights history, to commemorate Clay Sr.'s legacy through collectible stamps. It may raise awareness of his contributions among everyday Americans.
- On International Relations: None; the bill is purely domestic and symbolic.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- U.S. Postal Service: Responsible for issuing and selling the stamp.
- Congressional and Civil Rights Communities: Former colleagues, the Congressional Black Caucus, and advocacy groups benefiting from recognition of Clay Sr.'s work on equality and labor issues.
- General Public and Collectors: Individuals, historians, and stamp enthusiasts who may purchase or value the stamp as a historical artifact.
- Family and Legacy Holders: Clay Sr.'s family and organizations tied to his memoir or initiatives, gaining indirect honor and visibility.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: Straightforward authorization under congressional power to regulate postal matters (U.S. Constitution, Article I, Section 8). No challenges anticipated, as it aligns with routine commemorative stamp laws.
- Constitutional: None significant; it respects free speech and expression by celebrating public service without infringing on rights.
- Political: Symbolically reinforces the value of civil rights and public service in Congress, potentially inspiring bipartisan support for similar honors. It highlights Missouri's congressional history and the ongoing recognition of African American leaders, but remains non-controversial as a memorial act.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (3)
Rep. Smith, Jason [R-MO-8], Rep. Carson, André [D-IN-7], Rep. Graves, Sam [R-MO-6]
Recent Actions
- 2025-09-17: Referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
- 2025-09-17: Introduced in House
- 2025-09-17: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- William Lacy Clay Sr. Memorial Stamp Act — issued 2025-09-17 — PDF (4 pages)