Amazing bipartisanship - House and Senate
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Finally, the United States has an official bird.
A bipartisan bill that would officially recognize the bald eagle, one of America's most iconic animals, as the national bird will head to the desk of President Joe Biden for signature after the House passed legislation on Monday.
"My bipartisan legislation to recognize the Bald Eagle as our national bird just passed Congress and is now headed to the President’s desk to be signed into law!" Sen. Amy Klobuchar confirmed on social platform X. The bald eagle, which has been a symbol of the United States since it appeared on the great seal in 1782, has never been designated into law as the official national bird.
“Since the founding of our nation, the bald eagle has existed as a symbol of our country’s independence, strength, and freedom. Prominently displayed on our official currency, military uniforms, and our government buildings, the bald eagle stands as the undisputed representative of the United States of America,” Rep. Brad Finstad, who helped lead the House effort with Rep. Angie Craig, said in a statement.
The legislation was introduced in June by Klobuchar and Sens. Markwayne Mullin, Cynthia Lummis and Tina Smith. The bill passed the Senate, unanimously, in July.
Klobuchar lauded the bird’s significance and said the bald eagle symbolizes "freedom" and "strength."