Which federal commission did Congress establish in 2016 to coordinate the United States Semiquincentennial?

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

The commission was created by the United States Semiquincentennial Commission Act of 2016. Its purpose is to plan, encourage, develop, and coordinate activities commemorating American history leading up to the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

The commission is a federal body, while America250 is the public-facing name associated with the broader commemorative effort. It works with government agencies, states, communities, cultural institutions, educational organizations, and private partners. This structure distinguishes the official national planning effort from individual state or city anniversary programs.

The commission’s work covers more than a single parade or ceremony. It supports a nationwide observance intended to connect the 1776 founding era with local histories and the continuing development of the United States. The main anniversary date is July 4, 2026.