North Dakota
Senate Passes Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Act to Support Medora Site
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Key points
- S. 675 authorizes up to $50 million in federal matching grants for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library in Medora, North Dakota.
- The bill requires at least $100 million in non-federal funds before federal money is released and prohibits federal operational funding.
- The Senate passed the bill in June 2026, and the Congressional Budget Office projects outlay costs through 2028.
NewsWK — Federal lawmakers are advancing legislation to help construct a new presidential center celebrating the 26th president. U.S. Senator John Hoeven introduced the measure alongside Senator Kevin Cramer and Senator Richard Blumenthal. The bill establishes a clear federal partnership while keeping operational control in local non-federal hands.
What is the John Hoeven Theodore Roosevelt Library bill?
The John Hoeven Theodore Roosevelt Library bill authorizes the Department of the Interior to issue $50 million in federal matching grants to build the facility. Under the proposal, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation will establish the new site in Medora, North Dakota. The federal funding will strictly support historical preservation and public education efforts.
How does S 675 Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library protect taxpayer dollars?
The S 675 Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library legislation safeguards public funds by requiring significant non-federal investment before any federal money is disbursed. In addition, federal agencies will not manage daily facility expenses or long-term operational obligations. However, the legislation permits federal agencies to loan relevant historical artifacts for display.
The legislation sets strict fiscal guidelines for the grant funding:
- The Foundation must raise a mandatory $100 million in non-federal funds before receiving federal dollars.
- Federal grants cannot pay for ongoing library maintenance or operational costs.
- The federal government holds zero role in running the facility.
Why is the Medora North Dakota Theodore Roosevelt Library built with private matching funds?
Proponents structured the Medora North Dakota Theodore Roosevelt Library funding model to rely heavily on state and private backing. Therefore, taxpayers avoid open-ended federal commitments. The required two-to-one non-federal matching requirement ensures strong local and philanthropic backing before federal grant distribution begins.
What comes next for the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Medora North Dakota site?
The Senate passed the measure on June 22, 2026, before sending it to the House Committee on Natural Resources in August. Subsequently, Congressional Budget Office analysts over the 2027–2031 period Meanwhile, artifact loans will require less than $500,000 in federal expenses.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
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