Bill · H.R. 3498· House(119-HR-3498)

Henrietta Lacks Congressional Gold Medal Act

Age: 78 years

Maryland

Introduced: 5/19/2025
Last activity: 5/19/2025 — Referred to the Committee on Financial Services, and in addition to the Committee on House Administration, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Sponsored by: Kweisi Mfume
Cosponsors: - 35 - 0

Health

Introduced
In Committee

What this bill would do

This bill, titled the "Henrietta Lacks Congressional Gold Medal Act," proposes to posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal to Henrietta Lacks. The award recognizes her immortal cells, known as "HeLa Cells," which have contributed to global health, scientific research, and patients' rights. The Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate are tasked with arranging the presentation. Following the award, the medal is to be given to the Smithsonian Institution for display and research. The Secretary of the Treasury is responsible for designing and striking the gold medal. Additionally, the bill allows for the striking and sale of duplicate bronze medals.

Yes· 3 of 5

Would Black Americans be better off under this?+7
The bill provides posthumous national recognition for an African-American woman whose medical contributions were foundational.
Does this narrow racial gaps in how people are treated?+5
The bill provides formal national recognition for an African-American woman whose contributions were historically exploited without consent.
Would women be better off under this?+3
The bill honors a woman's legacy and advances discussions on bioethics and consent.