On January 21, 2025, the Minnesota State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 116, a legislative proposal aimed at appropriating $200,000 from the general fund for the erection of a new statue of Hubert H. Humphrey in the Statutory Hall of the United States Capitol. This bill seeks to replace the existing statue of Henry Mower Rice, reflecting a significant shift in the representation of Minnesota's historical figures at the national level.

The key provisions of the bill include funding for the removal and transportation of the Rice statue to the Minnesota State Historical Society, as well as the recasting and installation of the Humphrey statue, which currently resides on the mall of the Minnesota State Capitol. The appropriation is designated as a one-time funding source, available until the project is completed or abandoned, in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 16A.642.

The introduction of this bill has sparked discussions among legislators regarding the significance of honoring Hubert H. Humphrey, a prominent figure in Minnesota's political history and a former Vice President of the United States. Supporters argue that the move is a fitting tribute to Humphrey's legacy, particularly his contributions to civil rights and social justice. However, some opposition has emerged, with critics questioning the necessity of the expenditure and the decision to replace the Rice statue, which has its own historical significance.

The bill's implications extend beyond mere aesthetics; it touches on themes of representation and the values that Minnesota wishes to project on a national stage. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it may face further amendments and debates, particularly concerning budgetary priorities and the historical context of the figures being honored.

Senate Bill 116 is currently referred to the Capital Investment Committee, where it will undergo further scrutiny. The outcome of this bill could set a precedent for how states choose to represent their historical figures in national spaces, potentially influencing similar initiatives in other states. As discussions continue, stakeholders are keenly observing the legislative trajectory of this proposal, which could culminate in a significant cultural and political statement for Minnesota.