Which organization did the U.S. Congress establish in 2016 to lead America’s 250th-anniversary commemoration?

Congress established the United States Semiquincentennial Commission in 2016 to lead the national commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary.

The commission was created by Public Law 114-196, signed during the 114th Congress. Its mission was to encourage and coordinate a nationwide observance of the 250th anniversary of American independence.

The commission is associated with the America250 initiative, which works with public agencies, communities, cultural institutions, and other partners. Its planning covers educational projects, public programs, commemorative activities, and national participation.

This commission is distinct from the White House Task Force on Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, established by executive order in 2025. The commission was created by Congress in 2016, while the later task force was an executive-branch organization for coordinating federal celebration plans.