What congressional commission began official planning for the United States’ America250 celebrations in 2016?

The United States Semiquincentennial Commission began official congressional planning for America250 in 2016.

Congress established the commission as a nonpartisan body to help plan and coordinate observances of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Its work includes encouraging public participation, supporting educational initiatives, and connecting federal, state, local, and private efforts.

The commission was created in July 2016, four years before the anniversary year itself. It is commonly associated with the America250 name and works with America250.org, a nonprofit supporting organization.

The commission is distinct from the American Revolution Bicentennial Commission, which was created in 1966 for the 1976 anniversary. The two bodies were established for different milestone celebrations, separated by half a century.