Statements on Introduced Bills and Joint Resolutions

Floor Speech

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Mr. PADILLA. Mr. President, I rise to introduce the America's Olympic and Paralympic Games Commemorative Coins Act.

After a 26-year absence, the Olympics are making a big return to American soil with Los Angeles, CA and Salt Lake City, UT, set to host the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, respectively.

The America's Olympic and Paralympic Games Commemorative Coin Act would direct the Treasury Department to mint and issue coins in commemoration of these games. The 2028 summer games--or LA28--will be the ninth time that the United States and the third time that Los Angeles will host the modern Olympics. The 2034 winter games will be the 10th time that our Nation and the second time that Salt Lake City will host the modern Olympics.

The proceeds from the sale of these coins will support the hosting of the 2028 and 2034 Games and aid in the execution of their legacy programs, including the promotion of youth sports in the United States. It is also worth noting that this bill would come at no cost to the Federal Government.

As you may know, the United States is one of the only countries with an Olympic committee that does not receive funding from the Federal Government. All U.S.-hosted Olympic Games must instead rely on corporate partnerships, proceeds from broadcast agreements and ticket sales, and philanthropic contributions.

Historically, Congress has authorized commemorative coins to honor the Olympic Games and Olympic athletes, including for the 1984, 1996, and 2002 Olympic Games in the United States. The 2028 games are 3 years from today, and preparations for this grand event have already been underway in the region. This legislation can help ensure the 2028 and 2034 games have the resources necessary to be world-class events and showcase all that America has to offer.

I thank Senators Curtis, Schiff, and Mullin for introducing this legislation with me in the Senate, as well as Representatives Sherman, Lucas, Calvert, Kamlager-Dove, and Moore for leading the companion in the House. I hope all our colleagues will join us in supporting this bill to ensure that Los Angeles, CA, Salt Lake City, UT, and our entire Nation are able to put on successful and memorable Olympic and Paralympic Games.

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