California Commission on the United States Semiquincentennial.

Assembly Member Jeff Gonzalez proposes establishing the California Commission on the United States Semiquincentennial to coordinate statewide commemorations of America's 250th anniversary in 2026. The 16-member commission, chaired by the State Archivist, would develop educational programs, community events, and public exhibits while facilitating partnerships between private entities, nonprofits, and local governments.

The commission would operate independently from state funding, relying entirely on private contributions and federal grants deposited in a newly created Semiquincentennial Fund managed by the State Treasurer. Before beginning operations, the Controller must certify sufficient private funding exists to support commission activities without state resources. If adequate funding is not secured by February 1, 2026, the commission would dissolve and return remaining funds to contributors on a pro rata basis.

Members include legislative appointees, public representatives with historical programming experience, private sector sponsors, and cultural heritage organization leaders. Five additional members would focus specifically on fundraising efforts. The commission would maintain public transparency through an online portal and annual legislative reports, with all records transferring to the State Archives by December 31, 2028. The authorizing statute contains a sunset date of January 1, 2029.