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Bill

HR 469

Turner, LaShonia; commend

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Segun Adeyina and 4 co-sponsors

HR 469 establishes a time capsule to commemorate the U.S. 250th anniversary, inviting public contributions to preserve a snapshot of contemporary American life.

House Read and Adopted
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Bill Summary · HR 469

Summary of HR 469: Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act

Purpose and Intent

The Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act (HR 469) aims to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States by establishing a time capsule that will be filled with artifacts and documents reflecting the nation’s history, culture, and achievements. The intent is to preserve a snapshot of contemporary American society for future generations, fostering a sense of national identity and historical continuity.

Key Provisions

  • Establishment of a Time Capsule: The bill mandates the creation of a time capsule that will be sealed and stored for future generations to discover.
  • Contents of the Capsule: The time capsule will include items that represent the current state of the nation, including but not limited to:
    • Historical documents
    • Artifacts from various cultural and social movements
    • Contributions from citizens across the country
  • Timeline for Sealing: The time capsule is intended to be sealed in 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States.
  • Public Participation: The bill encourages public involvement in selecting items for inclusion, promoting a collective effort to represent the diverse fabric of American life.

Who Would Be Affected

  • General Public: Citizens will have the opportunity to contribute items and documents, fostering community engagement and a sense of ownership in the nation’s history.
  • Historians and Educators: The time capsule will serve as a valuable resource for future historians and educators, providing insights into the early 21st century.
  • Government Institutions: Various committees and agencies will be involved in the planning and execution of the time capsule project, including the Committee on House Administration and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

Legislative Process and Timeline

  • Introduced: January 15, 2025
  • House Actions:
    • The bill was debated and passed in the House on February 26, 2025, after a motion to suspend the rules was agreed to by voice vote.
    • It was referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management prior to its passage.
  • Senate Actions: The bill was received in the Senate on February 27, 2025, where it was read twice and referred to the Committee on Rules and Administration for further consideration.

Sponsors and Support

The bill is sponsored by Bonnie Watson Coleman and has a diverse group of cosponsors from both parties, indicating broad bipartisan support. Notable cosponsors include:
- LaMonica McIver
- Michael Lawler
- Chrissy Houlahan
- Robert J. Wittman
- Paul Tonko

Related Legislation

HR 469 has a companion bill, HR 1834, which may address similar themes or provisions related to the commemoration of the nation's 250th anniversary.

This summary provides an overview of HR 469, highlighting its significance as a legislative effort to honor the United States' history and engage the public in a meaningful way.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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