Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act
Sponsor
Thomas Tillis
Republican · NC
Latest Action · Feb 18, 2026
Became Public Law No: 119-79.
Bill Progress
Congress Plans Time Capsule for America's 250th
Why it matters
As the U.S. marks its 250th birthday in 2026, Congress is preserving today's legacy for future Americans.
The big picture: The Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act (S3705) directs Congress to seal away physical mementos and a joint letter from current congressional leaders, to be opened on July 4th, 2276—exactly 250 years from the country's founding anniversary. This effort aims to mark the 250th birthday of the U.S. by giving future generations a first-hand look at the values and voices of Congress today.
Zoom in: The bill assigns the Architect of the Capitol with creating and burying the time capsule in the Capitol Visitor Center. The capsule's contents and design are tightly controlled: Only items agreed to by top Congressional leaders, made largely from materials that won’t degrade, will be included. In addition, the location, size, and logistical details are spelled out to line up with major national celebrations.
Between the lines: This is about more than burying keepsakes—it’s a statement of continuity and faith in America's future. The process encourages bipartisan cooperation and thoughtfulness about how Congress wants to be remembered. The law even coordinates with a separate time capsule to be buried in Philadelphia, tying national significance to the project.
What This Bill Does
Creates an official Capitol time capsule
Orders the Architect of the Capitol to make and bury a time capsule at the Capitol Visitor Center.
Capsule contents picked by Congress leaders
Requires the four top Congressional offices to jointly choose what goes inside, including a joint letter and other artifacts.
Strict rules on capsule size and materials
Capsule size is limited to 50 x 32 x 48 inches, and items must be made from long-lasting materials—no perishables or breakable stuff.
Public commemorative plaque
Orders a plaque to mark the capsule’s location and purpose for visitors.
Set opening date for 2276
Capsule is to remain sealed until July 4, 2276, when future congressional leaders unlock and decide its fate.
Who Benefits
Future Americans
They get a direct window into Congress’ priorities and culture in 2026.
Historians and educators
Will gain authentic artifacts and a unique perspective on the country's 250th anniversary.
Visitors to the Capitol
Can see the plaque and learn about the long-term vision of today's Congress.
Congressional leaders
Get to shape the narrative about this moment for posterity.
Who's Affected
Members of Congress
Asked to collaborate across party lines on a symbolic project.
Architect of the Capitol staff
Responsible for designing, building, and installing the capsule.
Capitol Visitor Center attendees
Will encounter the plaque and the story of the capsule as part of the public experience.
Capitol planning and event staff
Must coordinate the capsule ceremony with other national events in 2026.
Cosponsors (3)
Recent Actions
Became Public Law No: 119-79.
Became Public Law No: 119-79.
Signed by President.
Signed by President.
Presented to President.
Presented to President.
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill Agreed to by voice vote. (text: CR H2046-2047)
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Full Bill Text
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View the complete legislative text on Congress.gov
Source: Congress.gov