WASHINGTON, D.C. — The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is preparing plans for a new $250 bill that could feature the president’s portrait, pending approval from Congress.
According to reports, the proposed commemorative currency is tied to celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the United States this year. Federal law currently prohibits living individuals from appearing on U.S. currency, but Republican lawmakers have introduced legislation seeking to create an exception.
Okay News reports that the U.S. Treasury Department confirmed it is conducting preliminary planning and consultations in response to the proposed legislation, while the Bureau of Engraving and Printing has reportedly begun requesting possible design concepts.
The proposal was introduced by Republican Congressman Joe Wilson of South Carolina and would still require approval from both chambers of Congress before becoming law.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the final decision rests with Congress, adding that the department was only preparing in case the legislation is eventually passed.
The move has already sparked criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who argued that the administration should focus more on economic concerns facing Americans rather than symbolic projects linked to the president.
The United States currently prints notes up to $100 for public circulation, although larger denominations such as $500 and $1,000 existed historically before being discontinued in 1969.
