Boys Town Coin Bill Headed to President's Desk

Press Release

This afternoon, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed H.R. 893 -- The Boys Town Centennial Commemorative Coin Act. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) led the charge in the Senate for this legislation, which passed as S. 301 in March. Congressman Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.) introduced companion legislation in the House, which was the final version passed today. The bill would authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to mint $5 gold coins, $1 silver coins, and half-dollar clad coins in honor of Boys Town's 100th anniversary. It will now be sent to the president's desk to be signed into law.

Senator Fischer released the following statement after the bill's passage:

"Today we are one step closer to cementing Boys Town's legacy into law. For nearly 100 years, this impressive organization has worked tirelessly to nurture troubled children and heal broken families. With this bill, the Boys Town Commemorative Coin Act, we will pay tribute to this extraordinary organization and all those who have played a role in its success.

"Nebraska is deeply proud to be home to this nonprofit, which has improved the lives of so many. I'm hopeful the president will quickly sign this bill into law so we can highlight Boys Town's positive impact on our communities and families across the nation."

Senator Fischer championed this legislation, introducing the companion bill (S.301) in the Senate and collecting 73 cosponsors. The Senate unanimously approved S.301 on March 25. Following passage, she worked with her colleagues in the House of Representatives to ensure the House version was successful and made its way back for approval by the Senate.

The 100th anniversary of Boys Town will occur on December 17, 2017. The Boys Town Commemorative Coin Act would authorize the Treasury Department to mint commemorative coins that would be sold in 2017 and 2018 in limited quantities. Associated costs will be covered by the sale of the coins -- there will be no cost to the taxpayer or the Treasury Department.

Founded in 1917 by Father Edward Flanagan, Boys Town is one of the largest nonprofits in the country serving underprivileged and at-risk children. The organization's headquarters are near Omaha in the village of Boys Town. Every year, the organization serves more than 2 million children and families across the country.

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