Which bipartisan commission did Congress create in 2016 to organize America’s 250th-anniversary observances?

Congress created the United States Semiquincentennial Commission in 2016 to organize America’s 250th-anniversary observances.

The commission was established by the United States Semiquincentennial Commission Act of 2016. Its purpose is to help plan and promote nationwide commemorations of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the founding era.

The commission is a bipartisan, congressionally authorized body. Its responsibilities include developing recommendations, coordinating with federal and local partners, and encouraging educational and civic programs. The anniversary is commonly branded America250, while “semiquincentennial” is the formal term for a 250th anniversary.

The commission is separate from the earlier United States Bicentennial celebrations of 1976. It also differs from temporary local committees that plan events in particular cities or states. Planning began years before 2026 so that museums, historic sites, schools, and communities could prepare programs for the national milestone.