9/11 Memorial Bill Mandates Free Admission, Public Audits for $5M–$10M Federal Grant

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum Act sets up a dedicated, one-time federal grant for the organization that runs the National September 11 Memorial Museum. This isn't automatic cash; the Secretary of Homeland Security will award between $5 million and $10 million, but only if Congress specifically budgets the money first. The museum organization, which must be a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit (SEC. 2), has to apply, and if approved, the funds must be released within 90 days (SEC. 3).

The Price of Admission: Free Access Mandates

This grant comes with some heavy strings attached, mostly aimed at boosting public access and transparency. If the museum takes the money, they have to guarantee free admission for several key groups: active and retired military members, first responders who were involved in the 9/11 attacks, and the family members of victims (SEC. 3). On top of that, they must set aside specific hours each week for free admission for the general public. This is a big deal for those who want to visit but struggle with the cost—it means guaranteed, scheduled access without needing to pay the ticket price.

Where the Money Goes (And Who's Watching)

The grant money is strictly earmarked for operating, securing, and maintaining the Memorial Museum—no using it for a new gift shop wing or executive bonuses (SEC. 3). When the Secretary decides the final amount within the $5 million to $10 million range, they have to consider factors like the museum's commitment to safety and its plans to increase visits from economically disadvantaged people. This suggests that the organization that can prove they’ll use the money to reach the most people might get the higher award.

Transparency or Too Much Oversight?

Perhaps the biggest condition is the mandatory annual audit. If the museum accepts the grant, they must allow the federal government to conduct annual audits of all their finances—including ticket sales, donations, and salaries (SEC. 3). The results of this comprehensive audit must then be reviewed by the Secretary of Homeland Security and made public. For the average person, this is a win for transparency, ensuring a national memorial is held accountable for every dollar. However, for the museum organization itself, this introduces a significant new administrative burden and a level of public scrutiny over their entire operation that most private nonprofits don't face.

The Bottom Line for Taxpayers

This legislation creates a clear path for federal support and ensures that support comes with guarantees of public access and strict financial accountability. It’s a mechanism designed to preserve a national landmark while making sure the public can actually visit it. The only caveat is that while the bill sets up the framework, the actual funding—the $5 million to $10 million—still needs to be secured through a separate vote by Congress. So, the structure is built, but the money has yet to be loaded into the bank.