President Joe Biden’s signing of 50 legislative measures during Christmas week marked a momentous occasion in U.S. governance, showcasing the administration’s commitment to addressing an array of pressing national concerns.
Among these bills, the formal designation of the bald eagle as the United States’ national bird stood out as a historic correction of a longstanding oversight. This move, alongside other critical legislative measures, highlights Biden’s efforts to cement his administration’s priorities in his final weeks in office.
The Bald Eagle: An Official Emblem of American Strength and Independence
Long celebrated as a symbol of American values and sovereignty, the bald eagle has been synonymous with the nation’s identity since its depiction on the Great Seal in 1782.
The majestic bird, known for its white-feathered head, yellow beak, and strong brown body, has graced countless emblems, military insignias, and currency, embodying the spirit of freedom and strength. However, until now, its status as the official national bird had never been legally codified.
With the passage of this new legislation, the bald eagle’s symbolic significance is enshrined in law, amending the United States Code to affirm what many Americans had long assumed. This act reflects a deeper commitment to preserving the nation’s heritage and natural treasures.
Interestingly, the road to this recognition was not without controversy. Founding father Benjamin Franklin once criticized the bald eagle, describing it as a “bird of bad moral character” in a letter and advocating for the turkey as a more fitting emblem of American values.
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Despite Franklin’s objections, the bald eagle has remained a powerful and enduring representation of the United States, its ubiquity underscoring its role as a unifying symbol.
Bipartisan legislation designating the bald eagle as the national bird of the United States will now be headed to President Bident to be signed into law, following today's unanimous passage in the House by voice vote. The Senate passed the bill by unanimous consent in July. 🦅🇺🇸 https://t.co/ho1tSwcUgz pic.twitter.com/bvrSunUm5M
— Craig Caplan (@CraigCaplan) December 16, 2024
The bird’s population, once threatened by habitat loss and hunting, has seen a remarkable resurgence thanks to conservation efforts. A 2020 report from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service estimated the bald eagle population at 316,700 individuals, including 71,400 nesting pairs—a fourfold increase since 2009.
This population growth underscores the success of environmental protections and reaffirms the bird’s status as a resilient emblem of American strength.
A Flurry of Legislative Activity in Biden’s Final Weeks
Beyond the bald eagle’s designation, President Biden’s flurry of legislative activity addressed a wide range of critical issues. Among the 50 bills signed into law, several measures stood out for their potential impact on society:
- Anti-Hazing Standards: The passage of H.R. 5646 marks a pivotal step in combating hazing on college campuses. By establishing federal anti-hazing standards, the legislation aims to curb violence and prevent tragic deaths among students, fostering a safer environment for higher education.
- Child Abuse Prevention: Inspired by advocacy from public figures like Paris Hilton, S. 1351 addresses child abuse in institutional facilities for at-risk youth. This measure seeks to enhance protections for vulnerable children and ensure accountability within care systems.
- Eliminate Useless Reports Act: With H.R. 5301, the federal government aims to streamline operations by reducing outdated and unnecessary reporting requirements. This act promises to enhance efficiency and reduce bureaucratic waste across federal agencies.
- Congressional Accountability: The enactment of S. 932 prevents members of Congress from collecting pensions if convicted of certain crimes. This measure reflects a commitment to upholding ethical standards and ensuring public trust in government officials.
- Native American Protections: H.R. 663 bolsters resources for Native American tribes to combat child abuse and family violence. By enhancing tools for tribal governments, this legislation addresses critical gaps in support for Indigenous communities.
- Judicial Appointments and Commemorations: S. 3998 converts temporary judicial posts into permanent positions in several states, addressing understaffing in federal courts. Additionally, measures such as S. 4077 and S. 5314 commemorate the contributions of late senators by naming public facilities in their honor.
Reflections on Joe Biden’s Legacy
As President Biden’s term comes to a close ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, this legislative push highlights his administration’s determination to address long-standing issues and solidify key priorities.
Biden’s actions, including the signing of these bills, commutations for 37 federal death-row inmates, and a full pardon for his son Hunter Biden, underscore his commitment to making lasting changes.
The diversity of the bills reflects a focus on addressing systemic challenges, promoting justice, and ensuring the welfare of future generations. By tackling issues ranging from child abuse and campus violence to judicial reforms and wildlife preservation, Biden’s legislative efforts represent a holistic approach to governance.
This flurry of activity also sets a precedent for the incoming administration, emphasizing the importance of addressing critical issues with urgency. While some measures, such as the naming of public facilities and commemorations, may seem symbolic, they contribute to the broader narrative of preserving history and honoring contributions to society.
Biden’s actions serve as a reminder of the power of legislative measures to shape the nation’s identity and address the needs of its people. From preserving natural symbols like the bald eagle to enacting laws that protect vulnerable populations, the administration’s efforts leave an indelible mark on the country’s legacy.