Smithsonian Integrity and Historical Independence Act of 2026

This bill would bar federal officials, including the President and Vice President, from taking certain actions toward the Smithsonian Institution. Officials could not require the Smithsonian to adopt an interpretation of events based only on the official's political views, could not order content removed or changed solely because it discusses a controversial or politically sensitive part of American history, and could not require the Smithsonian to endorse or include a particular viewpoint as a condition of federal funding. Smithsonian employees, agents, and affiliated individuals would have to report such actions, attempts, or threats to the Secretary of the Smithsonian. The Secretary would then have to notify committees in the House and Senate within 30 days of receiving a report. The Secretary, members of the Board of Regents acting in that role, and Smithsonian staff are not covered by the restrictions.

Full text and official record on Congress.gov

Sponsors

• Melanie A. Stansbury Democrat sponsor
• 7 cosponsors