After a 2020 amendment, the United States Semiquincentennial Commission had 36 members. The amendment expanded the commission’s non-voting ex officio federal membership while preserving its congressional and private-citizen representation.
The commission originally consisted of 33 people: eight members of Congress, 16 private citizens, and nine federal officials. The 2020 change increased the number of non-voting ex officio federal officials from nine to 12, producing a total membership of 36.
Congress designed the commission as a bipartisan body. Party leaders in the House and Senate designate its congressional members and private citizens, while federal officials participate in an ex officio capacity. The president designates the chairperson from among the private citizens.
The commission was established under Public Law 114-196, enacted on July 22, 2016. Its responsibilities include promoting and coordinating observances of the 250th anniversary of American independence. The commission and its nonprofit partner share the America250 identity and website.