Summary of HRES 646

Bill Information

• Bill Number: HRES 646
• Title: Calling on the Senate to remove the name of Richard B. Russell from the Russell Senate Office Building.
• Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management.
• Introduced: August 08, 2025
• Classification: Resolution
• Primary Sponsor: Al Green

Purpose and Intent

HRES 646 aims to address the legacy of Senator Richard B. Russell by calling for the removal of his name from the Russell Senate Office Building. The resolution seeks to confront and reject the ideologies of White nationalism and White supremacy, which are viewed as fundamentally opposed to the core values of equality and justice that define the United States.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes three main provisions:

1. Rejection of Hate Ideologies: The House of Representatives reaffirms its stance against White nationalism and White supremacy, labeling these ideologies as intolerant and contrary to American values.

2. Condemnation of Memorialization: It condemns the use of any statues, memorials, or artwork that honor Senator Richard B. Russell or any other lawmakers who have disavowed the principle that all individuals are created equal, as stated in the Declaration of Independence.

3. Call for Name Removal: The resolution calls on the Senate to remove Richard B. Russell's name from the Russell Senate Office Building and to revert to its original name, the Old Senate Office Building, until a suitable honoree can be identified.

Affected Parties

The resolution primarily impacts the Senate and its historical recognition practices. It also addresses broader societal implications by challenging the memorialization of figures associated with discriminatory ideologies. The resolution may resonate with advocacy groups focused on civil rights and social justice, as well as constituents who support the removal of symbols associated with racism.

Procedural Aspects

• Introduced: The resolution was submitted to the House on August 08, 2025.
• Committee Referral: It was referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure on the same day.
• Subcommittee Referral: On August 09, 2025, the resolution was further referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management.

Conclusion

HRES 646 represents a significant legislative effort to confront historical injustices and reshape the narrative surrounding public memorials. By calling for the removal of Richard B. Russell's name from a prominent government building, the resolution seeks to promote a more inclusive representation of American values and history.