The United States Semiquincentennial Commission, now associated with America250, was established in 2016.
Congress created the commission through the United States Semiquincentennial Commission Act. President Barack Obama signed the legislation in July 2016, beginning formal federal planning for the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The commission was intended to coordinate a nationwide observance, recommend programs, and encourage commemorative activity at historically significant locations. Its work began a decade before the anniversary date, allowing time for federal agencies, states, territories, museums, and community groups to prepare.
The commission is distinct from later White House initiatives created during the 2020s. America250 became the public-facing name connected with the congressional, nonpartisan commemoration, while additional organizations and local commissions developed their own anniversary programs.