119-HR-8999 Journalist Public Summary

Public Summary of H.R. 8999 (119th Congress)

Headline Summary: Rename the Grand Haven, Michigan post office at 324 Washington Avenue as the “Ell Thomas Simantz Post Office Building,” honoring a local World War II soldier. [1]WGHN (Grand Haven, MI) — Congresswoman Scholten Leads Michigan Delegation in Re…

What It Does: The bill designates the U.S. Postal Service facility at 324 Washington Avenue, Suite 1, in Grand Haven, MI, to bear Ell Thomas Simantz’s name. It’s a commemorative naming only—no new spending or postal operations changes are included. [2]U.S. Department of State — GRAND HAVEN POST OFFICE – State Department passport…

Why It Matters: Simantz was a Grand Haven native killed in action in 1942; his remains were identified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency in 2025 and returned for burial in his hometown that October. Supporters say the naming recognizes his service and gives the community a visible place of remembrance. [3]Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) — TEC 5 Ell T. Simantz – Service Membe…

Who’s For It:

• Led by Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) with backing from all 12 Michigan House members (bipartisan). Sponsors frame it as a local, unifying tribute to a fallen service member. [1]WGHN (Grand Haven, MI) — Congresswoman Scholten Leads Michigan Delegation in Re…

Who’s Against It:

• No organized opposition identified. Post office namings are typically noncontroversial and often pass the House by a two‑thirds vote under “suspension of the rules.” [4]Congressional Research Service / Library of Congress — Postal Primer: Post Offi…

What’s Next: As of June 2, 2026, the bill has been introduced and awaits action in the House. If advanced, measures like this commonly receive a quick House vote under suspension, then must pass the Senate and be signed by the President to become law. [1]WGHN (Grand Haven, MI) — Congresswoman Scholten Leads Michigan Delegation in Re…