The "Donald J. Trump $250 Bill Act" mandates the printing of $250 Federal Reserve notes featuring Donald J. Trump's portrait to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States, and amends title 31 to allow living presidents on currency.
Joe Wilson
Representative
SC-2
The "Donald J. Trump $250 Bill Act" would require the Department of Treasury to print $250 Federal Reserve notes featuring a portrait of Donald J. Trump, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. This bill also amends existing law to allow the portrait of living Presidents to appear on United States currency and securities.
$250 'Trump Bills' Proposed: Law Changed to Allow Living Presidents on U.S. Currency
The "Donald J. Trump $250 Bill Act" does exactly what it says on the tin: It directs the Treasury Secretary to print $250 bills featuring Donald J. Trump's portrait within a year of the law's enactment. The stated goal? To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. But it's not just about a new bill – this Act also green-lights putting any living President on our money, now and in the future.
Cash Rules Everything Around Me?
Currently, there are rules about whose face can appear on U.S. currency and securities. Section 5114(b) of title 31, United States Code, pretty much kept it to dead presidents only. This bill, however, specifically amends that section, opening the door for portraits of living Presidents. So, what does that mean in practice? For starters, expect to see a new $250 bill with Trump's portrait if this becomes law. It also means this isn't a one-off. Future presidents could also appear on currency while still in office.
Real-World (Money) Talks
Let's break down how this could actually affect people. A small business owner who handles a lot of cash transactions? They'll need to train their staff on recognizing and handling a new, unusual denomination. Collectors might scramble to get their hands on these bills, potentially driving up their value as memorabilia. And for the average person? It means seeing a living political figure every time they open their wallet, a departure from the usual historical figures.
Printing Problems
Beyond the symbolic shift, there are practical considerations. Introducing a $250 denomination could create headaches for businesses. Think about cash registers, ATMs, and vending machines – they'd all need to be updated. There's also the potential for confusion and even increased counterfeiting risks with a new, unfamiliar bill. And, more broadly, this move raises the question of precedent. If we start putting living presidents on currency, where does it stop? Will every future president want their own bill?