Which commission did Congress establish in 2016 to plan America’s 250th anniversary?

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

The commission is a congressional, nonpartisan organization created to coordinate and encourage commemorations of the 250th anniversary of American independence. Its work connects national planning with programs organized by states, cities, historic sites, museums, and civic groups.

The commission is distinct from the White House Task Force on Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, which was established later in 2025. The two bodies have different origins and organizational roles, a distinction that can be missed when both are discussed under the broader America250 label.

The commission’s creation in 2016 was itself 10 years before the anniversary year. That long lead time reflects the scale of organizing a celebration involving all 50 states and many historical institutions.