H.R. 8741: Philadelphia Campaign Two Hundred and Fiftieth Commemoration Commission Act

The Philadelphia Campaign Two Hundred and Fiftieth Commemoration Commission Act aims to establish a commission to officially recognize and commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Philadelphia Campaign, a significant event in the American Revolutionary War that took place from 1777 to 1778. The commission will have several key functions and responsibilities:

Establishment of the Commission

A commission known as the Philadelphia Campaign Two Hundred and Fiftieth Commemoration Commission will be set up to oversee the commemoration of this historical event.

Commission Responsibilities

• Report to Congress: The commission will submit a report recommending activities for the Federal Government to observe the anniversary. This will include:
  • Activities that are deemed fitting to commemorate the anniversary.
  • Any legislative proposals, including potential funding requests.
• Recommendations for Activities: The commission may suggest that the Federal Government:
  • Acquire and preserve artifacts linked to the Philadelphia Campaign.
  • Sponsor educational and interactive digital resources about the Campaign.
  • Host conferences, exhibitions, or public meetings related to the Campaign.
• Consultation: The commission will work with various historical and cultural institutions for guidance and input on the activities and commemorations.
• Coordination: The commission will foster collaboration among state, local, national, and private organizations to synchronize their commemoration efforts. It will also maintain a voluntary registry of these initiatives.

Membership Structure

The commission will consist of 14 voting members, including:

• The Librarian of Congress.
• The Chief Operating Officer of the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia.
• Twelve appointed members, including representatives from the President, Senate, House of Representatives, and the Governor of Pennsylvania.

Members will serve without pay but may be reimbursed for travel expenses. The President of the United States can serve as an honorary, nonvoting member of the commission.

Powers of the Commission

The commission will have the authority to:

• Hold hearings and gather testimonies to support its activities.
• Take necessary administrative actions and enter contracts for resources required to fulfill its objectives.
• Accept donations of financial and personal support.

Administrative Support

The Museum of the American Revolution may provide the commission with necessary administrative assistance, helping to facilitate its operations.

Reporting and Terminology

The commission will submit interim reports to Congress at six-month and one-year intervals after its establishment, along with a final report by September 30, 2028, detailing its activities. The commission will terminate 120 days after submitting this final report.

Funding

To carry out its activities, the commission is authorized to receive appropriations of $2,500,000 for fiscal years 2027 and 2028, which will remain available until fully utilized.

Relevant Companies

None found.