Authorizing the Use of Capitol Grounds for Greater Washington Soap Box Derby

Floor Speech

Mr. Speaker, today we are considering H. Con. Res. 43, to authorize the use of the Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative Hoyer for introducing this resolution. The Greater Washington Soap Box Derby is an annual competitive event that encourages children, ages 9 through 16, to construct and race their own soapbox vehicles on the Capitol Grounds.

This event has become a great tradition in the District of Columbia metropolitan area over the last few decades. It provides a terrific opportunity for children to appreciate the work necessary to build the vehicles and enjoy the thrill of competition.

The Greater Washington Soap Box Derby organizers will work with the Architect of the Capitol and the Capitol Police to ensure the appropriate rules and regulations are in place and that the event remains free to the public.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution, and I reserve the balance of my time.
BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H. Con. Res. 43, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby is a time-honored tradition that provides an opportunity to promote fair and honest competition amongst the children in the Greater Washington area.

Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this resolution, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 43, Authorizing the Use of the Capitol Grounds for the Greater Washington Soap Box Derby.

The Greater Washington Soap Box Derby Association shall be permitted to sponsor a public event, soap box derby races, on the Capitol Grounds.

The event shall be held on June 17, 2023, or on another designated date, whereby the sponsor shall assume full responsibility for all expenses and liabilities associated with the event.

The event shall be free of admission charge and open to the public; and arranged not to interfere with the needs of Congress.

The Soap Box Derby is a youth soapbox car racing program which has been run in the United States since 1933.

It is also an event we support in my district by way of the Greater Houston Soap Box Derby (GHSBD) which is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) non-profit, Texas corporation organized for charitable and educational purposes.

I support the expansion of this event and all those who are dedicated to having a race program that is safe, fun, fair, professionally run, and that reaches out to all youth.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source