Story perspectives

Merkley Introduces Bill to Block Demolition of Presidential Memorials

By Drooid · Sep 25, 2026, 10:57 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) will introduce legislation prohibiting demolition of presidential memorials, including the Kennedy Center.
The bill would require an act of Congress to authorize demolition of any memorial designated by Congress.
Judge Christopher R. Cooper ruled the Kennedy Center must give at least 30 days notice before demolition.
Kennedy Center executive director Matt Floca extended the venue’s closure through Sept. 30 for emergency repairs.

History

Historical Context

President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the National Historic Preservation Act on October 15 1966, establishing the National Register, State Historic Preservation Offices and the Section 106 review that forces federal agencies to assess impacts on historic properties. Building on earlier steps such as the 1935 Historic Sites Act, the program now protects more than 95,000 listings nationwide.

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Story summary

Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon) will introduce legislation prohibiting demolition of presidential memorials, including the Kennedy Center.
The bill would require an act of Congress to authorize demolition of any memorial designated by Congress.
Judge Christopher R. Cooper ruled the Kennedy Center must give at least 30 days notice before demolition.
Kennedy Center executive director Matt Floca extended the venue’s closure through Sept. 30 for emergency repairs.

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