WASHINGTON — A new bill would help keep the National Children's Museum (NCM) in Washington, D.C. open, according to museum officials. NCM has said it may close unless the bill is enacted.
Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) and Congressman Mike Carey (R-OH) introduced the bill that would provide the museum with rent-free space in the federally owned Ronald Regan Building and International Trade Center in D.C.
NCM, the nation's first combination children's museum and science center, is the only congressionally designated museum that pays rent in a federal building.
"Most children’s museums and science centers receive rent-free spaces from their local government. National Children’s Museum is a cornerstone of the Washington, DC community, and serves visitors from across the country and world," said President and CEO Crystal Bowyer. "In order to succeed in our previously empty federal space in downtown DC, we need Congress to ensure our new home is provided rent-free for hands-on, STEM engagement."
The House previously passed the bill twice, in the 116th and 117th Congresses.
"The National Children's Museum will bring visitors to D.C. from throughout the U.S. and the world," Norton says. "The bill's enactment would be a victory for the museum, the nation's capital, and especially children. Thank you to Rep. Carey for introducing the bill this Congress.”
“The National Children’s Museum provides families a prime learning experience,” Carey said. “Our bipartisan bill would make this museum more accessible for visitors to our nation’s capital.”
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