H.R. 8946: Veterans Affairs Heritage Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Veterans Affairs Heritage Act of 2026, aims to establish a dedicated office within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) called the Department of Veterans Affairs History Office. Here's a summary of its key components:

Establishment of the History Office

The bill proposes the creation of a history program and national history center within the VA. This office will be tasked with documenting and preserving the rich heritage of the VA and its predecessor organizations. It will be located in Dayton, Ohio, at a facility determined appropriate by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. The requirement for this office to be based in Dayton will last for eight years after the law is enacted.

Objectives of the History Office

The primary objectives of the History Office will include:

• Collecting and preserving historical records: It will gather relevant artifacts, records, and cultural resources related to the Department of Veterans Affairs.
• Educating the public: The office will provide education about the history of the VA and its contributions, aiming to share comprehensive stories with veterans, government agencies, and the general public.

Responsibilities

The office will have several core responsibilities, such as:

• Implementing activities related to the history program within the VA.
• Providing educational opportunities and public exhibits to raise awareness about the VA's contributions.
• Maintaining facilities for access to historical materials, including archives and display space for public viewing.
• Conducting training regarding the preservation of historical items and archives.

Organizational Structure

The office will be led by a Chief Historian who will report directly to the Secretary of Veterans Affairs. The office can also include additional staff as deemed necessary for fulfilling its mission.

Coordination and Oversight

An internal coordination group will be formed to assist the History Office in its operations. This group will include senior officials from various divisions of the VA, and its chair will be the Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

Transfer of Functions

The bill transfers certain existing functions to the new History Office, including those related to the Veterans Legacy Program and the Veterans History Project, which were previously managed by the National Cemetery Administration and Library of Congress, respectively.

Funding and Partnerships

To support its activities, the VA Secretary will have the authority to accept gifts and bequests for the office. The bill also allows the office to enter into partnerships and cooperative agreements with organizations to enhance its capabilities and public outreach. Additionally, the Secretary can lease portions of the office’s facilities to nonprofit organizations to help generate revenue for its activities.

Reporting Requirements

The Secretary of Veterans Affairs is tasked with submitting a detailed report to Congress within 180 days after the enactment of the law, outlining plans for staffing, budget, and organizational structure of the History Office. Annual progress reports will follow until December 31, 2030, providing updates on the office’s operations.

Relevant Companies

None found.