The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission was established in 2016.
Congress created the commission through legislation intended to plan and coordinate observances of the United States’ 250th anniversary. President Barack Obama signed the original act on July 22, 2016. The commission’s work covers local, state, national, and international activities connected with the anniversary.
The commission was established a decade before the 2026 milestone, allowing time for planning, partnerships, public programs, and commemorative projects. Its public-facing work is associated with the America250 name.
The 2020 amendments changed parts of the commission’s structure and funding authorities. That later legislation should not be confused with the commission’s creation: the founding year remains 2016.