Summary of HCONRES 16

Bill Overview

• Bill Number: HCONRES 16
• Title: Providing for a joint session of the Congress in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Thursday, July 2, 2026, in honor of the semiquincentennial of the Declaration of Independence.
• Status: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
• Introduced: February 27, 2025
• Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HCONRES 16 aims to commemorate the semiquincentennial (250th anniversary) of the Declaration of Independence by convening a joint session of Congress. This event is proposed to take place at the Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 2, 2026. The resolution seeks to honor the historical significance of the Declaration and its impact on American democracy.

Key Provisions

• Joint Session of Congress: The resolution mandates that both Houses of Congress assemble for a joint session specifically to commemorate the Declaration of Independence.
• Location: The event is to be held at the Independence National Historical Park, a site of great historical importance as the location where the Declaration was adopted.

Impact

• Participants: The resolution will affect all members of Congress, who will be required to attend the joint session. It also aims to engage the public and promote awareness of the Declaration's significance.
• Historical Significance: This event is intended to serve as a national celebration, fostering a sense of unity and reflection on the principles of freedom and democracy that the Declaration represents.

Legislative Actions

• On February 27, 2025, HCONRES 16 was referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration.

Sponsors

The resolution has garnered support from a diverse group of sponsors, including:
- Primary Sponsor: Brendan F. Boyle
- Cosponsors:
- LaMonica McIver
- Chrissy Houlahan
- Christopher R. Deluzio
- Lloyd Smucker
- Zachary Nunn
- Robert B. Aderholt
- Madeleine Dean
- Robert E. Latta
- Maria Elvira Salazar
- Glenn Thompson
- Donald G. Davis
- Blake D. Moore
- Ryan Mackenzie
- Mary Gay Scanlon
- Sharice Davids
- Mike Kelly
- Timothy M. Kennedy
- Jim Costa
- Brian K. Fitzpatrick
- Sanford D. Bishop
- Bennie G. Thompson
- Dwight Evans
- Summer L. Lee
- Bonnie Watson Coleman

Conclusion

HCONRES 16 represents a significant initiative to honor a pivotal moment in American history. By facilitating a joint session of Congress in Philadelphia, the resolution aims to celebrate the enduring legacy of the Declaration of Independence and its foundational role in the United States' democratic principles.