This bill allows the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino to be located within the Reserve of the National Mall, overriding other laws or regulations that would prevent that placement. It makes a conforming amendment to earlier language about the museum site. The bill also changes rules when the chosen site is under another federal agency: the Smithsonian Board of Regents must notify that agency, the agency must notify certain Congressional committees, and the agency must transfer administrative jurisdiction of the land or structure to the Smithsonian as soon as practicable. The bill requires the museum's Board of Trustees to ensure exhibits and programs represent the varied cultures, histories, events, and values of Hispanic or Latino communities and to seek guidance from a broad array of knowledgeable sources representing diverse political viewpoints and experiences. It defines what is meant by a "broad array" and a "knowledgeable and respected source." The Smithsonian must report to several House and Senate committees within 120 days after enactment and every two years after that on actions taken to comply with the diversity and exhibit requirements. The bill states its provisions take effect as if included in the 2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act provision that originally addressed the museum.
If enacted, the museum may be built on the Reserve of the National Mall. The museum's exhibits and programs must reflect a wide range of Hispanic or Latino experiences and viewpoints, and the Board of Trustees must seek guidance from diverse and credible sources when creating or substantially revising content. Congress will receive reports about the museum's actions to meet those requirements.
No publicly available information about costs, funding sources, or budgetary estimates is included in the bill text provided.
The bill permits placement of the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino within the National Mall Reserve, clarifies the site-transfer process when land is under another agency, requires attention to diverse political viewpoints and authentic experiences in exhibits, and establishes a schedule for reporting progress to Congress.
No publicly available information about opposition, objections, or counterarguments is included in the bill text provided.