Bill > S1303

This bill authorizes the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum to be located within the Reserve of the National Mall, overriding previous restrictions. The legislation amends existing law to provide guidelines for selecting a museum site, including requirements that if the site is under another federal agency's jurisdiction, that agency must be notified and transfer administrative control to the Smithsonian Institution. The bill emphasizes the importance of representing diverse perspectives by requiring the museum's Council to seek guidance from a broad array of sources representing varied political viewpoints, cultures, and experiences of women in the United States. The museum must ensure its exhibits and programs comprehensively represent the varied histories, events, and values of women. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Smithsonian Secretary submit reports to multiple congressional committees every two years detailing how the museum is meeting these diversity and representation requirements. The amendments are designed to take effect as if they were part of the original Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021, ensuring the museum's development reflects a comprehensive and inclusive approach to women's history.

Government Affairs

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1303/all-info