9/11 Memorial and Museum Act

This bill would give a one-time federal grant to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum to help pay for operations, security, and upkeep. The grant must be between $5 million and $10 million, and the Department of Homeland Security would decide the exact amount after reviewing an application and set criteria like visitor safety needs, preserving the site, education, and helping more low-income visitors come. The department must make the award within 90 days of getting a complete application, if the criteria are met. Funding depends on money Congress has already set aside; no new money is created by this bill .

In return, the museum must offer free admission to active and retired military members, registered 9/11 first responders, and families of 9/11 victims, plus set aside at least one weekly time with free entry for the general public. The museum must also allow yearly federal audits of its finances, including ticket sales, donations, grants, and spending, with results shared publicly .

• Who is affected: Visitors to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum; active/retired military; registered 9/11 first responders; families of 9/11 victims; low-income visitors who may see expanded access .
• What changes: A one-time federal grant supports security, operations, and maintenance; required free entry for certain groups and weekly free hours; public financial audits .
• When: Grant decision within 90 days of a complete application; annual reports and audits after funds are used; funding only if already appropriated by Congress .