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119th Congress

H.R. 1329

Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Act

  1. Introduced
  2. In committee
  3. Passed House
  4. Passed Senate
  5. To President
  6. Became law
Sponsor
Nicole Malliotakis(R-NY)
Introduced
Feb 13, 2025
Policy area
Arts, Culture, Religion
Committees
House Committee on House Administration; House Committee on Natural Resources
Official text
Reported in House · Congress.gov page

Cosponsors (232)

Original cosponsors (76)
Added later (156)

Summary

Summary by the Congressional Research Service· describes the “Reported to House” version

Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Act This bill authorizes the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum to be located on a particular site within the Reserve of the National Mall in Washington, DC. Specifically, the bill designates the South Monument site as the location for the museum; however, the President may designate an alternative site within 180 days of the bill's enactment. (The site is the undeveloped land across the National Mall from the National Museum of African American History and Culture.) Administrative jurisdiction of the site must be transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. The Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institution must have the approval of specified federal entities (e.g., the Commission of Fine Arts) to plan, design, and construct a museum building. The bill (1) outlines the criteria for considering site and design proposals, and (2) requires the Smithsonian Institution to reimburse for costs resulting from the building approval process. The bill directs the museum to be dedicated to preserving, researching, and presenting the history, achievements, and lived experiences of biological women in the United States. Under this bill, the museum may not identify, present, describe, or depict any biological male as a female. In carrying out its duties, the museum's advisory council must (1) seek and utilize guidance from a broad array of knowledgeable and respected sources reflecting the diversity of the political viewpoints and authentic experiences held by women in the United States, and (2) seek guidance for the creation and substantial revision of exhibits and programs.

Roll-call votes

DateVoteResultYour members
May 21, 2026
House #188		On Passage: Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum ActFailedSet your home to see
May 21, 2026
House #187		On Motion to Recommit: Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum ActFailedSet your home to see

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