What federal commission did Congress establish in 2016 to plan the United States’ 250th anniversary?

Congress established the United States Semiquincentennial Commission in 2016 to plan the nation’s 250th anniversary.

The commission was created through federal legislation to help coordinate a national observance of the 250th anniversary of American independence in 2026. Its responsibilities include encouraging participation, supporting commemorative programs, and helping organize a broad national celebration.

The commission is distinct from the nonprofit America250 organization, which supports and promotes anniversary initiatives. “America250” is the public-facing brand most people encounter, while the commission is the federally established body created by Congress.

The commission’s work follows earlier anniversary efforts, including the United States Bicentennial celebration in 1976. Its formal name uses “semiquincentennial,” the term for a 250th anniversary, rather than “bicentennial,” which refers to 200 years.