A resolution honoring the memory of Jereima "Jeri" Bustamante on the eighth anniversary of her passing.

Summary of S.Res. 717 (119th Congress, 2nd Session)

Purpose

• A Senate resolution honoring the memory of Jereima “Jeri” Bustamante on the eighth anniversary of her passing (April 8, 2026).

Key Provisions and Changes

• Expresses the Senate’s recognition and condolences for Jeri Bustamante, detailing her life and achievements.
• Highlights Jeri Bustamante’s personal and professional background:
  • Immigrated from Panama to the United States with her family.
  • Attended Miami Beach Senior High School.
  • Earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication and Media Sciences and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Florida International University.
  • Demonstrated a strong work ethic, funding her education through work while enrolled.
  • Began with an internship at a Miami television station and progressed to serving as press secretary to Governor Rick Scott.
• Establishes the Jereima Bustamante Memorial Scholarship (referred to as the “Jereima Bustamante Memorial Scholarship”) to support graduates of Miami Beach Senior High School in pursuing higher education and achieving their goals.
• Acknowledges that Jeri Bustamante’s life and values continue to inspire others to strive toward the American Dream via hard work and dedication.
• Encourages scholarship recipients to carry forward Jeri Bustamante’s legacy.

Who/What Would Be Affected

• The resolution itself does not create new federal programs or authorize funding; rather, it memorializes and honors an individual.
• It references and promotes the Jereima Bustamante Memorial Scholarship, which is intended to assist Miami Beach Senior High School graduates in pursuing college education (the resolution does not itself create or fund the scholarship; it may reflect or support a separate scholarship program).

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

• Status: Submitted to the Senate on April 30, 2026.
• Referral: Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
• Sponsor: Senator Rick Scott (co-sponsor listed).
• The resolution serves as a commemorative expression of sentiment and does not amend statutes or authorize expenditures.

Potential Impact

• Public recognition of Jeri Bustamante’s life and impact.
• May raise awareness of the Jereima Bustamante Memorial Scholarship and its mission to assist Miami Beach Senior High School graduates with college education.
• Could inspire recipients and the broader community by highlighting the example of hard work, perseverance, and public service.

Notes:
- The document is a Congressional Senate Resolution (S.Res. 717) and is generally symbolic in nature, with an emphasis on remembrance, tribute, and encouragement rather than policy changes or mandatory actions.