The law establishing the United States Semiquincentennial Commission became law in 2016.
Congress created the commission through the United States Semiquincentennial Commission Act of 2016. Its purpose was to promote and coordinate observances for the 250th anniversary of American independence and to encourage participation across the country.
The commission was designed as a bipartisan, congressionally appointed body. Its responsibilities include planning national commemorations, coordinating with federal agencies and outside partners, and making recommendations connected with the anniversary.
The 2016 law began a long planning period rather than marking the start of the Revolutionary War itself. The commission later developed relationships with nonprofit organizations and worked under the America250 banner. Congress amended the law in 2020 to make technical changes and adjust the commission’s structure and funding provisions.