American Latino Museum Act (H.R. 1330)

Summary

Allows the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino to be built on the National Mall and requires its exhibits to show many different political views.

What problem does this solve?

Current law stops new buildings from being put on the National Mall, and some worry the museum won't show all Latino viewpoints. This bill makes an exception for the museum to be built on the Mall and adds rules to make sure its exhibits are balanced and show many different experiences.

What does this bill do?

Allows museum construction on the National Mall

Removes the legal barrier that prevents the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino from being built within the Reserve area of the National Mall.

Requires diverse political viewpoints in exhibits

Mandates the museum's Board of Trustees to ensure exhibits represent a broad array of political views and authentic experiences from Hispanic and Latino communities.

Simplifies federal land transfer process

Creates a process for a federal agency to transfer land to the Smithsonian for the museum site after notifying Congress.

Mandates reports to Congress

Requires the Smithsonian to report to Congress every two years on how the museum is complying with the requirement to include diverse viewpoints in its exhibits and programs.

Who does this affect?

American Latino and Hispanic communities
The Smithsonian Institution
Visitors to the National Mall

What is the real world impact?

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Gives the museum a prime location

Ensures the National Museum of the American Latino can be built in a highly visible and important location on the National Mall, honoring the history and culture of American Latinos.

When does this start?

The rules in this bill apply as if they were part of the original law that created the museum in 2021, and it sets a new deadline for reports to Congress.

First report to Congress

The Smithsonian must submit its first report on exhibit diversity to Congress no later than 120 days after this bill becomes law.