Recognizing the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Program.

119th Congress Introduced by Ami Bera and 5 co-sponsors

Recognizes the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Program and urges continued congressional support for international education and cultural exchange as tools of diplomacy and natio

Submitted in House

Summary of H.Res. 1501 (119th Congress) — Recognizing the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Program

Purpose and intent

This House concurrent resolution recognizes August 1, 2026, as the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Act of 1946, which established the Fulbright Program.

It honors the life and legacy of the program as a means to promote international goodwill through education, culture, and science.

The resolution expresses support for continuing U.S. engagement in international education and cultural exchange as a tool for foreign policy and national security.

Key provisions and changes

Acknowledgment of the historical significance of the Fulbright Act and its enduring role in international exchange.

The House "encourages Congress to support the work of the Fulbright Program and other educational and cultural affairs programs to advance U.S. foreign policy and national security."

Congratulatory note to past and present Fulbright award recipients.

Call to action for students, scholars, and professionals worldwide to pursue opportunities that foster international understanding and partnership.

Who/what is affected

The resolution impacts broad stakeholders rather than changing laws or programs directly. It elevates and endorses the Fulbright Program within federal policy discourse.

It highlights the Fulbright Program’s reach (operating in more than 160 countries with roughly 9,000 grants annually as of 2026) and its notable alumni.

While not altering program eligibility or funding in statute, it signals legislative support for continuing and strengthening U.S. educational and cultural exchange initiatives.

Procedural and timeline aspects

The bill was introduced on August 31, 2026, by Rep. Hill (with several co-sponsors) and referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

It is a recognition resolution, not a appropriations or authorizing measure, so it does not create new programs or funding by itself but serves as an expression of Congress’s stance and encouragement.

No changes to the current Fulbright Act are proposed; the resolution commemorates and advocates for ongoing support.

Notable details

Fulbright Program scope: approximately 9,000 grants annually; operates in >160 countries; includes 49 binational cost-sharing commissions.

Notable outcomes and alumni cited (Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize recipients, heads of state, and other prominent figures) to illustrate impact and prestige.

Sponsored by multiple Representatives (including co-sponsors French Hill, Ami Bera, Jeff Van Drew, Brad Sherman, Brian Fitzpatrick, Mike Lawler).

Bottom line

H.Res. 1501 is a commemorate-and-encourage resolution recognizing the 80th anniversary of the Fulbright Program, praising its contributions to education, diplomacy, and national security, and urging continued congressional support for Fulbright and similar international exchange efforts.