Summary
Creates a special time capsule for the 250th anniversary of the United States, to be opened in the year 2276.
What problem does this solve?
The United States is approaching its 250th anniversary, and Congress wants a way to preserve a piece of its history for future generations. This law directs the creation and burial of a time capsule at the U.S. Capitol to commemorate this milestone.
Who does this affect?
- Architect of the Capitol
- Congressional Leadership
- Future members of Congress
What does this law do?
Creates a congressional time capsule
Directs the Architect of the Capitol to create a time capsule to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Determines who decides the contents
Gives the leaders of the House and Senate the joint power to decide what goes inside the time capsule.
Sets the unsealing date for 250 years in the future
Specifies that the time capsule will be sealed until July 4, 2276, when it will be opened by the 244th Congress.
Sets rules for capsule contents
Requires that items placed in the capsule must be made of materials that will not easily break down over time, like metal or special archival paper.
Specifies burial location and plaque
Requires the time capsule to be buried in the Capitol Visitor Center and marked with a plaque.
Limits the size of the time capsule
States the time capsule cannot be more than 50 inches wide, 32 inches deep, and 48 inches high.
What is the real world impact?
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Historical preservation for future generations
This act creates a tangible link between the current Congress and a future one, 250 years from now. It's a way to commemorate a major national anniversary and send a message to the future about the present day.
When does this start?
This law sets multiple deadlines, including dates for the burial and future unsealing of the time capsule.
Burial of time capsule
The time capsule must be buried in the Capitol Visitor Center on or before July 4, 2026.