S. 734 · Where this bill is now
In committee
Introduced in the Senate, Feb 25, 2025
What this bill does
In plain words · AI-written from the official summaryHonors first African American astronaut candidate
This bill awards a Congressional Gold Medal to Edward J. Dwight, Jr., recognizing his historic role as the first African American astronaut candidate in the U.S. The medal honors his service to the country, his perseverance through racism and hardship, and his work in art and Black history.
How it affects you
This is a ceremonial honor with no direct changes to laws or policies that affect your daily life. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor Congress can give, and this bill recognizes Dwight's historical significance to American space exploration and civil rights.
Read the official summary (Introduced in Senate, Feb 25, 2025)
Edward J. Dwight, Jr., Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025
This bill provides for the award of a Congressional Gold Medal to Edward J. Dwight, Jr., the first African American astronaut candidate in the United States, in recognition of his historic service to the United States, his example of excellence during times of struggle and overt racism, and his contributions in art and Black history.
Written by AI (Claude) using only the official summary by the Congressional Research Service, the Library of Congress’s nonpartisan research staff. It can miss nuance, so check the official summary and the bill text for details.
1st SessionS. 734
A BILL
Edward J. Dwight, Jr. Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2025
Sponsor: Sen. Michael F. Bennet (D-CO) · Introduced Feb 25, 2025 · Science, Technology, Communications · 1 version of the text
Sources: Congress.gov actions and votes · bill text from GovInfo · latest official action Feb 25, 2025: “Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.”