Bill > HCRes16

This joint resolution authorizes a special joint session of Congress to be held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 2, 2026, to commemorate the 250th anniversary (semiquincentennial) of the Declaration of Independence. The resolution highlights Philadelphia's historical significance as the "Nation's birthplace," noting its critical role in American founding, including hosting the first and second Continental Congresses, the Constitutional Convention, and serving as the United States capital from 1790-1800. The proposed joint session will take place at Independence National Historical Park, near Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was originally approved on July 4, 1776. This gathering is particularly notable because Congress has only convened outside Washington, D.C., twice since 1800 - once in 1987 at Independence Hall to honor the Constitution's bicentennial and once in 2002 at Federal Hall in New York to remember the September 11 victims. The resolution emphasizes the historical and symbolic importance of returning to Philadelphia to mark this significant milestone in American history.

Justice

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-concurrent-resolution/16/all-info