North Miami-Dade News

This week, the U.S. House of Representatives approved H.R. 6394, known as the Congressional Time Capsule Act for the Semiquincentennial. The legislation was introduced by Representatives María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ). It authorizes the Architect of the Capitol to create a time capsule and bury it on the west lawn of the Capitol, to remain sealed until July 4, 2276, marking the nation's 500th anniversary.

Congresswoman Salazar is leading this legislation as co-chair of the Congressional America250 Caucus, which serves as a forum for lawmakers to engage with and promote the United States' 250th founding anniversary at the Capitol. This caucus is associated with the United States Semiquincentennial Commission, established by an act of Congress in 2016 to organize this milestone and reach Americans worldwide before the celebration on July 4, 2026.

"Since 1776, the American experiment has been a beacon of hope for the entire world," said Representative María Elvira Salazar. "Now that America is about to celebrate its 250th anniversary, it is appropriate to create a time capsule that will be opened in another 250 years for America's 500th anniversary with contents that will show American exceptionalism to future Americans. I am proud to lead this legislation with my colleagues and urge swift passage by the Senate."

"I am very pleased that my bipartisan legislation commemorating America's 250th anniversary with a time capsule has overwhelmingly passed in the House," said Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman. "This time capsule will commemorate our moment in American history and give future generations a glimpse into our nation as it was. I am grateful for my colleagues' collaboration in both Congress and on America250 under Rosie Rios's capable leadership. It is a privilege working with all of you as we plan a nationwide celebration of America's 250th birthday."

The content of this time capsule will be determined by offices including those of the Speaker of the House, Minority Leader's Office in both chambers, among others. It will contain items representing significant congressional legislation or institutional milestones, a message from Congress to future Congresses, and other elements reflecting history at its burial moment in 2026.

Senator Jeanne Shaheen from New Hampshire has introduced complementary legislation in the Senate. It is co-sponsored by Senators Chuck Grassley from Iowa, Thom Tillis from North Carolina, Richard Blumenthal from Connecticut, Bob Casey from Pennsylvania, and Mike Rounds from South Dakota.