Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act

Bill: 118-hr-7764
Sponsor: full_name: Rep. Wasserman Schultz, Debbie [D-FL-25]
Introduced: 2024-03-20
Policy area: Arts, Culture, Religion
Subjects: Advisory bodies

Congressional oversight

District of Columbia

Historical and cultural resources

Museums, exhibitions, cultural centers

Religion

Smithsonian Institution

U.S. history
Latest action: action_date: 2024-12-11
text: Became Public Law No: 118-144.

Summaries:
action_date: 2024-03-20
action_desc: Introduced in House
text: <p><strong>Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act</strong></p><p>This bill establishes a commission to study the potential transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution. &nbsp;</p><p>Within two years of its first meeting, the commission must submit a report, fundraising plan, and legislative recommendations to Congress and the President. The report must address certain issues, including (1) the impact of the museum on educational and governmental efforts to study and counter anti-Semitism, and (2) financial and legal considerations associated with the potential transfer.</p>

action_date: 2024-12-11
action_desc: Public Law
text: <p><strong>Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act</strong></p><p>This act establishes a commission to study the potential transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia to the Smithsonian Institution. The commission must report its plan and recommendations to Congress and the President no later than two years after the commission's first meeting.</p><p>The commission shall be composed of eight voting members appointed from among individuals or representatives of institutions with relevant expertise or interests (as further specified in the act). The Senate majority leader, Senate minority leader, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and House minority leader shall each appoint two voting members, with the chair elected by the commission members.</p><p>The commission's report must detail (1) the museum's collections and the extent to which such collections are already represented in the Smithsonian Institution; (2) the impact of the museum on educational and governmental efforts to study and counter antisemitism; (3) the museum's financial assets and liabilities; and (4) operating and maintenance costs for the museum. The report must also contain a fundraising plan and legislative recommendations.&nbsp;</p><p>The commission terminates 30 days after the final versions of its report, plan, and recommendations are submitted to Congress.</p>

tv_txt: IB One Hundred Eighteenth Congress of the United States of America At the Second Session Begun and held at the City of Washington on Wednesday, the third day of January, two thousand and twenty-four H. R. 7764 AN ACT To establish a commission to study the potential transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution, and for other purposes.

1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act . 2. Establishment of commission (a) In general There is established the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution (hereafter in this Act referred to as the Commission ). (b) Membership The Commission shall be composed of 8 members, of whom— (1) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the majority leader of the Senate; (2) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; (3) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the minority leader of the Senate; and (4) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the minority leader of the House of Representatives. (c) Qualification Members of the Commission shall be appointed to the Commission from among individuals, or representatives of institutions or entities, who possess— (1) (A) a demonstrated commitment to the research, study, or promotion of Jewish American history, art, political or economic status, or culture; and (B) (i) expertise in museum administration; (ii) expertise in fund-raising for nonprofit or cultural institutions; (iii) experience in the study and teaching of Jewish American history; (iv) experience in the study and teaching of combating and countering antisemitism; (v) experience in studying the issue of the representation of Jewish Americans in art, life, history, and culture at the Smithsonian Institution; or (vi) extensive experience in public or elected service; (2) experience in the administration of, or the strategic planning for, museums; or (3) experience in the planning or design of museum facilities. (d) Deadline for initial appointment The initial members of the Commission shall be appointed not later than the date that is 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act. (e) Vacancies A vacancy in the Commission— (1) shall not affect the powers of the Commission; and (2) shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment was made. (f) Chairperson The Commission shall, by majority vote of all of the voting members, select 1 member of the Commission to serve as the Chairperson of the Commission. (g) Prohibition No employee of the Federal Government may serve as a member of the Commission. 3. Duties of commission (a) Reports and other deliverables Not later than 2 years after the date of the first meeting of the Commission, the Commission shall submit to the President and to Congress the report, plan, and recommendations described in paragraphs (1) through (3). (1) Report on issues A report that addresses the following issues relating to the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia, PA, and its environs (hereafter in this Act referred to as the Museum ): (A) The collections held by the Museum at the time of the report, the extent to which such collections are already represented in the Smithsonian Institution and Federal memorials at the time of the report, and the availability and cost of future collections to be acquired and housed in the Museum. (B) The impact of the Museum on educational and governmental efforts to study and counter antisemitism. (C) The financial assets and liabilities held by the Museum, and the cost of operating and maintaining the Museum. (D) The governance and organizational structure from which the Museum should operate if transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. (E) The financial and legal considerations associated with the potential transfer of the Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, including— (i) any donor or legal restrictions on the Museum’s collections, endowments, and real estate; (ii) costs associated with actions that will be necessary to resolve the status of employees of the Museum, if the Museum is transferred to the Smithsonian Institution; and (iii) all additional costs for the Smithsonian Institution that would be associated with operating and maintaining a new museum outside of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. (F) The feasibility of the Museum becoming part of the Smithsonian Institution, taking into account the Museum’s potential impact on the Smithsonian’s existing facilities maintenance backlog, collections storage needs, and identified construction or renovation costs for new or existing museums. (2) Fund-raising plan A fund-raising plan that addresses the following topics: (A) The ability to support the transfer, operation, and maintenance of the Museum through contributions from the public, including potential charges for admission. (B) Any potential issues with funding the operations and maintenance of the Museum in perpetuity without reliance on appropriations of Federal funds. (3) Legislative recommendations A report containing recommendations regarding a legislative plan for transferring the Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, which shall include each of the following: (A) Proposals regarding the time frame, one-time appropriations level, and continuing appropriations levels that might be included in such legislation. (B) Recommendations for the future name of the Museum if it is transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. (b) National conference Not later than 2 years after the date on which the initial members of the Commission are appointed under section 2, the Commission may, in carrying out the duties of the Commission under this section, convene a national conference relating to the Museum, to be comprised of individuals committed to the advancement of the life, art, history, and culture of Jewish Americans. 4. Administrative provisions (a) Compensation (1) In general A member of the Commission— (A) shall not be considered to be a Federal employee for any purpose by reason of service on the Commission; and (B) shall serve without pay. (2) Travel expenses A member of the Commission shall be allowed a per diem allowance for travel expenses, at rates consistent with those authorized under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code. (3) Gifts, bequests, and devises The Commission may solicit, accept, use, and dispose of gifts, bequests, or devises of money, services, or real or personal property for the purpose of aiding or facilitating the work of the Commission. Such gifts, bequests, or devises may be from the Museum. (b) Termination The Commission shall terminate on the date that is 30 days after the date on which the final versions of the report, plan, and recommendations required under section 3 are submitted. (c) Funding The Commission shall be solely responsible for acceptance of contributions for, and payment of the expenses of, the Commission. (d) Director and staff of commission (1) Director and staff (A) In general The Commission may employ and compensate an executive director and any other additional personnel that are necessary to enable the Commission to perform the duties of the Commission. (B) Rates of pay Rates of pay for persons employed under subparagraph (A) shall be consistent with the rates of pay allowed for employees of a temporary organization under section 3161 of title 5, United States Code. (2) Not Federal employment Any individual employed under this subsection shall not be considered a Federal employee for the purpose of any law governing Federal employment. (3) Technical assistance (A) In general Subject to subparagraph (B), on request of the Commission, the head of a Federal agency shall provide technical assistance to the Commission. (B) Prohibition No Federal employees may be detailed to the Commission. (4) Volunteer services Notwithstanding section 1342 of title 31, United States Code, the Commission may accept and use voluntary and uncompensated services as the Commission determines necessary. (e) Administrative support services Upon request of the Commission, the Administrator of the General Services Administration shall provide to the Commission, on a reimbursable basis, the administrative support services necessary for the Commission to carry out its responsibilities under this Act. The involvement of the General Services Administration shall be limited to providing administrative support to the Commission, and such involvement shall terminate upon termination of the Commission. (f) Meeting location The Commission may meet virtually or in-person. (g) Appointment delays The Commission may begin to meet and carry out activities under this Act before all members of the Commission have been appointed if— (1) 90 days have passed since the date of the enactment of this Act; and (2) a majority of the members of the Commission have been appointed.

Speaker of the House of Representatives. Vice President of the United States and President of the Senate.

tv_txt: IIB 118th CONGRESS 2d Session H. R. 7764 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES September 24, 2024 Received; read twice and referred to the Committee on Rules and Administration AN ACT To establish a commission to study the potential transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution, and for other purposes.

1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act . 2. Establishment of commission (a) In general There is established the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution (hereafter in this Act referred to as the Commission ). (b) Membership The Commission shall be composed of 8 members, of whom— (1) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the majority leader of the Senate; (2) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; (3) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the minority leader of the Senate; and (4) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the minority leader of the House of Representatives. (c) Qualification Members of the Commission shall be appointed to the Commission from among individuals, or representatives of institutions or entities, who possess— (1) (A) a demonstrated commitment to the research, study, or promotion of Jewish American history, art, political or economic status, or culture; and (B) (i) expertise in museum administration; (ii) expertise in fund-raising for nonprofit or cultural institutions; (iii) experience in the study and teaching of Jewish American history; (iv) experience in the study and teaching of combating and countering antisemitism; (v) experience in studying the issue of the representation of Jewish Americans in art, life, history, and culture at the Smithsonian Institution; or (vi) extensive experience in public or elected service; (2) experience in the administration of, or the strategic planning for, museums; or (3) experience in the planning or design of museum facilities. (d) Deadline for initial appointment The initial members of the Commission shall be appointed not later than the date that is 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act. (e) Vacancies A vacancy in the Commission— (1) shall not affect the powers of the Commission; and (2) shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment was made. (f) Chairperson The Commission shall, by majority vote of all of the voting members, select 1 member of the Commission to serve as the Chairperson of the Commission. (g) Prohibition No employee of the Federal Government may serve as a member of the Commission. 3. Duties of commission (a) Reports and other deliverables Not later than 2 years after the date of the first meeting of the Commission, the Commission shall submit to the President and to Congress the report, plan, and recommendations described in paragraphs (1) through (3). (1) Report on issues A report that addresses the following issues relating to the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia, PA, and its environs (hereafter in this Act referred to as the Museum ): (A) The collections held by the Museum at the time of the report, the extent to which such collections are already represented in the Smithsonian Institution and Federal memorials at the time of the report, and the availability and cost of future collections to be acquired and housed in the Museum. (B) The impact of the Museum on educational and governmental efforts to study and counter antisemitism. (C) The financial assets and liabilities held by the Museum, and the cost of operating and maintaining the Museum. (D) The governance and organizational structure from which the Museum should operate if transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. (E) The financial and legal considerations associated with the potential transfer of the Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, including— (i) any donor or legal restrictions on the Museum’s collections, endowments, and real estate; (ii) costs associated with actions that will be necessary to resolve the status of employees of the Museum, if the Museum is transferred to the Smithsonian Institution; and (iii) all additional costs for the Smithsonian Institution that would be associated with operating and maintaining a new museum outside of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. (F) The feasibility of the Museum becoming part of the Smithsonian Institution, taking into account the Museum’s potential impact on the Smithsonian’s existing facilities maintenance backlog, collections storage needs, and identified construction or renovation costs for new or existing museums. (2) Fund-raising plan A fund-raising plan that addresses the following topics: (A) The ability to support the transfer, operation, and maintenance of the Museum through contributions from the public, including potential charges for admission. (B) Any potential issues with funding the operations and maintenance of the Museum in perpetuity without reliance on appropriations of Federal funds. (3) Legislative recommendations A report containing recommendations regarding a legislative plan for transferring the Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, which shall include each of the following: (A) Proposals regarding the time frame, one-time appropriations level, and continuing appropriations levels that might be included in such legislation. (B) Recommendations for the future name of the Museum if it is transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. (b) National conference Not later than 2 years after the date on which the initial members of the Commission are appointed under section 2, the Commission may, in carrying out the duties of the Commission under this section, convene a national conference relating to the Museum, to be comprised of individuals committed to the advancement of the life, art, history, and culture of Jewish Americans. 4. Administrative provisions (a) Compensation (1) In general A member of the Commission— (A) shall not be considered to be a Federal employee for any purpose by reason of service on the Commission; and (B) shall serve without pay. (2) Travel expenses A member of the Commission shall be allowed a per diem allowance for travel expenses, at rates consistent with those authorized under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code. (3) Gifts, bequests, and devises The Commission may solicit, accept, use, and dispose of gifts, bequests, or devises of money, services, or real or personal property for the purpose of aiding or facilitating the work of the Commission. Such gifts, bequests, or devises may be from the Museum. (b) Termination The Commission shall terminate on the date that is 30 days after the date on which the final versions of the report, plan, and recommendations required under section 3 are submitted. (c) Funding The Commission shall be solely responsible for acceptance of contributions for, and payment of the expenses of, the Commission. (d) Director and staff of commission (1) Director and staff (A) In general The Commission may employ and compensate an executive director and any other additional personnel that are necessary to enable the Commission to perform the duties of the Commission. (B) Rates of pay Rates of pay for persons employed under subparagraph (A) shall be consistent with the rates of pay allowed for employees of a temporary organization under section 3161 of title 5, United States Code. (2) Not Federal employment Any individual employed under this subsection shall not be considered a Federal employee for the purpose of any law governing Federal employment. (3) Technical assistance (A) In general Subject to subparagraph (B), on request of the Commission, the head of a Federal agency shall provide technical assistance to the Commission. (B) Prohibition No Federal employees may be detailed to the Commission. (4) Volunteer services Notwithstanding section 1342 of title 31, United States Code, the Commission may accept and use voluntary and uncompensated services as the Commission determines necessary. (e) Administrative support services Upon request of the Commission, the Administrator of the General Services Administration shall provide to the Commission, on a reimbursable basis, the administrative support services necessary for the Commission to carry out its responsibilities under this Act. The involvement of the General Services Administration shall be limited to providing administrative support to the Commission, and such involvement shall terminate upon termination of the Commission. (f) Meeting location The Commission may meet virtually or in-person. (g) Appointment delays The Commission may begin to meet and carry out activities under this Act before all members of the Commission have been appointed if— (1) 90 days have passed since the date of the enactment of this Act; and (2) a majority of the members of the Commission have been appointed.

Passed the House of Representatives September 23, 2024. Kevin F. McCumber, Clerk.

tv_txt: IB 118th CONGRESS 2d Session H. R. 7764 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES AN ACT To establish a commission to study the potential transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution, and for other purposes.

1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act . 2. Establishment of commission (a) In general There is established the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution (hereafter in this Act referred to as the Commission ). (b) Membership The Commission shall be composed of 8 members, of whom— (1) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the majority leader of the Senate; (2) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; (3) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the minority leader of the Senate; and (4) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the minority leader of the House of Representatives. (c) Qualification Members of the Commission shall be appointed to the Commission from among individuals, or representatives of institutions or entities, who possess— (1) (A) a demonstrated commitment to the research, study, or promotion of Jewish American history, art, political or economic status, or culture; and (B) (i) expertise in museum administration; (ii) expertise in fund-raising for nonprofit or cultural institutions; (iii) experience in the study and teaching of Jewish American history; (iv) experience in the study and teaching of combating and countering antisemitism; (v) experience in studying the issue of the representation of Jewish Americans in art, life, history, and culture at the Smithsonian Institution; or (vi) extensive experience in public or elected service; (2) experience in the administration of, or the strategic planning for, museums; or (3) experience in the planning or design of museum facilities. (d) Deadline for initial appointment The initial members of the Commission shall be appointed not later than the date that is 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act. (e) Vacancies A vacancy in the Commission— (1) shall not affect the powers of the Commission; and (2) shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment was made. (f) Chairperson The Commission shall, by majority vote of all of the voting members, select 1 member of the Commission to serve as the Chairperson of the Commission. (g) Prohibition No employee of the Federal Government may serve as a member of the Commission. 3. Duties of commission (a) Reports and other deliverables Not later than 2 years after the date of the first meeting of the Commission, the Commission shall submit to the President and to Congress the report, plan, and recommendations described in paragraphs (1) through (3). (1) Report on issues A report that addresses the following issues relating to the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia, PA, and its environs (hereafter in this Act referred to as the Museum ): (A) The collections held by the Museum at the time of the report, the extent to which such collections are already represented in the Smithsonian Institution and Federal memorials at the time of the report, and the availability and cost of future collections to be acquired and housed in the Museum. (B) The impact of the Museum on educational and governmental efforts to study and counter antisemitism. (C) The financial assets and liabilities held by the Museum, and the cost of operating and maintaining the Museum. (D) The governance and organizational structure from which the Museum should operate if transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. (E) The financial and legal considerations associated with the potential transfer of the Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, including— (i) any donor or legal restrictions on the Museum’s collections, endowments, and real estate; (ii) costs associated with actions that will be necessary to resolve the status of employees of the Museum, if the Museum is transferred to the Smithsonian Institution; and (iii) all additional costs for the Smithsonian Institution that would be associated with operating and maintaining a new museum outside of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. (F) The feasibility of the Museum becoming part of the Smithsonian Institution, taking into account the Museum’s potential impact on the Smithsonian’s existing facilities maintenance backlog, collections storage needs, and identified construction or renovation costs for new or existing museums. (2) Fund-raising plan A fund-raising plan that addresses the following topics: (A) The ability to support the transfer, operation, and maintenance of the Museum through contributions from the public, including potential charges for admission. (B) Any potential issues with funding the operations and maintenance of the Museum in perpetuity without reliance on appropriations of Federal funds. (3) Legislative recommendations A report containing recommendations regarding a legislative plan for transferring the Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, which shall include each of the following: (A) Proposals regarding the time frame, one-time appropriations level, and continuing appropriations levels that might be included in such legislation. (B) Recommendations for the future name of the Museum if it is transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. (b) National conference Not later than 2 years after the date on which the initial members of the Commission are appointed under section 2, the Commission may, in carrying out the duties of the Commission under this section, convene a national conference relating to the Museum, to be comprised of individuals committed to the advancement of the life, art, history, and culture of Jewish Americans. 4. Administrative provisions (a) Compensation (1) In general A member of the Commission— (A) shall not be considered to be a Federal employee for any purpose by reason of service on the Commission; and (B) shall serve without pay. (2) Travel expenses A member of the Commission shall be allowed a per diem allowance for travel expenses, at rates consistent with those authorized under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code. (3) Gifts, bequests, and devises The Commission may solicit, accept, use, and dispose of gifts, bequests, or devises of money, services, or real or personal property for the purpose of aiding or facilitating the work of the Commission. Such gifts, bequests, or devises may be from the Museum. (b) Termination The Commission shall terminate on the date that is 30 days after the date on which the final versions of the report, plan, and recommendations required under section 3 are submitted. (c) Funding The Commission shall be solely responsible for acceptance of contributions for, and payment of the expenses of, the Commission. (d) Director and staff of commission (1) Director and staff (A) In general The Commission may employ and compensate an executive director and any other additional personnel that are necessary to enable the Commission to perform the duties of the Commission. (B) Rates of pay Rates of pay for persons employed under subparagraph (A) shall be consistent with the rates of pay allowed for employees of a temporary organization under section 3161 of title 5, United States Code. (2) Not Federal employment Any individual employed under this subsection shall not be considered a Federal employee for the purpose of any law governing Federal employment. (3) Technical assistance (A) In general Subject to subparagraph (B), on request of the Commission, the head of a Federal agency shall provide technical assistance to the Commission. (B) Prohibition No Federal employees may be detailed to the Commission. (4) Volunteer services Notwithstanding section 1342 of title 31, United States Code, the Commission may accept and use voluntary and uncompensated services as the Commission determines necessary. (e) Administrative support services Upon request of the Commission, the Administrator of the General Services Administration shall provide to the Commission, on a reimbursable basis, the administrative support services necessary for the Commission to carry out its responsibilities under this Act. The involvement of the General Services Administration shall be limited to providing administrative support to the Commission, and such involvement shall terminate upon termination of the Commission. (f) Meeting location The Commission may meet virtually or in-person. (g) Appointment delays The Commission may begin to meet and carry out activities under this Act before all members of the Commission have been appointed if— (1) 90 days have passed since the date of the enactment of this Act; and (2) a majority of the members of the Commission have been appointed.

Passed the House of Representatives September 23, 2024. Kevin F. McCumber, Clerk.

tv_txt: IB Union Calendar No. 578 118th CONGRESS 2d Session H. R. 7764 [Report No. 118–683] IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 20, 2024 Ms. Wasserman Schultz (for herself, Mr. Turner , Mr. Boyle of Pennsylvania , and Mr. Miller of Ohio ) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on House Administration September 17, 2024 Additional sponsors: Mr. Morelle , Ms. Scanlon , Mr. Gottheimer , Mr. Fitzpatrick , Mr. Weber of Texas , Mr. Torres of New York , Mr. Pascrell , Mr. Vargas , Ms. Malliotakis , Mrs. Rodgers of Washington , Mr. Goldman of New York , Mr. Norcross , Mr. Bacon , Mr. Lawler , Mr. Steube , Mr. Garbarino , Ms. Wild , Mrs. Watson Coleman , Mr. Diaz-Balart , Mr. Kean of New Jersey , Mr. Davis of North Carolina , Ms. Stevens , Mr. Kustoff , Ms. Tenney , Mr. Yakym , Mr. Wenstrup , Mr. Ciscomani , Mrs. Chavez-DeRemer , Ms. Lois Frankel of Florida , Ms. Williams of Georgia , Mr. Schneider , Mr. Cuellar , Mr. Jackson of Illinois , Mr. Edwards , Ms. Manning , Mr. Cárdenas , Mrs. Miller-Meeks , Mr. Veasey , Mr. Bilirakis , Mr. Dunn of Florida , Mr. Flood , Mr. Kilmer , Mr. Ferguson , Mr. Rutherford , Ms. Brownley , Mr. Green of Texas , Mr. Mann , Ms. Pettersen , Mr. D'Esposito , Mr. Moulton , Ms. Porter , Mr. Trone , Ms. Chu , Mr. Sherman , Mr. Soto , Ms. Sewell , Mr. Fleischmann , Ms. Stefanik , Mr. Doggett , Mr. Ryan , Mr. LaLota , Mr. Curtis , Ms. Salinas , Ms. Crockett , Mr. Pallone , Mrs. Kim of California , Mr. Landsman , Mr. Sorensen , Mr. Carbajal , Mr. LaMalfa , Mr. Scott Franklin of Florida , Mr. Molinaro , Ms. Bonamici , Mr. Valadao , Mr. Bucshon , Mr. Levin , Mr. Crenshaw , Mr. DeSaulnier , Mr. Van Drew , Mr. Jackson of North Carolina , Mrs. Torres of California , Mr. LaHood , Mr. Gallego , Ms. Titus , Mr. Deluzio , Mr. Kim of New Jersey , Ms. McClellan , Ms. Sánchez , Ms. De La Cruz , Mr. Loudermilk , and Mr. Schiff September 17, 2024 Reported with an amendment, committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union, and ordered to be printed Strike out all after the enacting clause and insert the part printed in italic For text of introduced bill, see copy of bill as introduced on March 20, 2024 A BILL To establish a commission to study the potential transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution, and for other purposes.

1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act . 2. Establishment of commission (a) In general There is established the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution (hereafter in this Act referred to as the Commission ). (b) Membership The Commission shall be composed of 8 members, of whom— (1) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the majority leader of the Senate; (2) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; (3) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the minority leader of the Senate; and (4) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the minority leader of the House of Representatives. (c) Qualification Members of the Commission shall be appointed to the Commission from among individuals, or representatives of institutions or entities, who possess— (1) (A) a demonstrated commitment to the research, study, or promotion of Jewish American history, art, political or economic status, or culture; and (B) (i) expertise in museum administration; (ii) expertise in fund-raising for nonprofit or cultural institutions; (iii) experience in the study and teaching of Jewish American history; (iv) experience in the study and teaching of combating and countering antisemitism; (v) experience in studying the issue of the representation of Jewish Americans in art, life, history, and culture at the Smithsonian Institution; or (vi) extensive experience in public or elected service; (2) experience in the administration of, or the strategic planning for, museums; or (3) experience in the planning or design of museum facilities. (d) Deadline for initial appointment The initial members of the Commission shall be appointed not later than the date that is 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act. (e) Vacancies A vacancy in the Commission— (1) shall not affect the powers of the Commission; and (2) shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment was made. (f) Chairperson The Commission shall, by majority vote of all of the voting members, select 1 member of the Commission to serve as the Chairperson of the Commission. (g) Prohibition No employee of the Federal Government may serve as a member of the Commission. 3. Duties of commission (a) Reports and other deliverables Not later than 2 years after the date of the first meeting of the Commission, the Commission shall submit to the President and to Congress the report, plan, and recommendations described in paragraphs (1) through (3). (1) Report on issues A report that addresses the following issues relating to the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia, PA, and its environs (hereafter in this Act referred to as the Museum ): (A) The collections held by the Museum at the time of the report, the extent to which such collections are already represented in the Smithsonian Institution and Federal memorials at the time of the report, and the availability and cost of future collections to be acquired and housed in the Museum. (B) The impact of the Museum on educational and governmental efforts to study and counter antisemitism. (C) The financial assets and liabilities held by the Museum, and the cost of operating and maintaining the Museum. (D) The governance and organizational structure from which the Museum should operate if transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. (E) The financial and legal considerations associated with the potential transfer of the Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, including— (i) any donor or legal restrictions on the Museum’s collections, endowments, and real estate; (ii) costs associated with actions that will be necessary to resolve the status of employees of the Museum, if the Museum is transferred to the Smithsonian Institution; and (iii) all additional costs for the Smithsonian Institution that would be associated with operating and maintaining a new museum outside of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. (F) The feasibility of the Museum becoming part of the Smithsonian Institution, taking into account the Museum’s potential impact on the Smithsonian’s existing facilities maintenance backlog, collections storage needs, and identified construction or renovation costs for new or existing museums. (2) Fund-raising plan A fund-raising plan that addresses the following topics: (A) The ability to support the transfer, operation, and maintenance of the Museum through contributions from the public, including potential charges for admission. (B) Any potential issues with funding the operations and maintenance of the Museum in perpetuity without reliance on appropriations of Federal funds. (3) Legislative recommendations A report containing recommendations regarding a legislative plan for transferring the Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, which shall include each of the following: (A) Proposals regarding the time frame, one-time appropriations level, and continuing appropriations levels that might be included in such legislation. (B) Recommendations for the future name of the Museum if it is transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. (b) National conference Not later than 2 years after the date on which the initial members of the Commission are appointed under section 2, the Commission may, in carrying out the duties of the Commission under this section, convene a national conference relating to the Museum, to be comprised of individuals committed to the advancement of the life, art, history, and culture of Jewish Americans. 4. Administrative provisions (a) Compensation (1) In general A member of the Commission— (A) shall not be considered to be a Federal employee for any purpose by reason of service on the Commission; and (B) shall serve without pay. (2) Travel expenses A member of the Commission shall be allowed a per diem allowance for travel expenses, at rates consistent with those authorized under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code. (3) Gifts, bequests, and devises The Commission may solicit, accept, use, and dispose of gifts, bequests, or devises of money, services, or real or personal property for the purpose of aiding or facilitating the work of the Commission. Such gifts, bequests, or devises may be from the Museum. (b) Termination The Commission shall terminate on the date that is 30 days after the date on which the final versions of the report, plan, and recommendations required under section 3 are submitted. (c) Funding The Commission shall be solely responsible for acceptance of contributions for, and payment of the expenses of, the Commission. (d) Director and staff of commission (1) Director and staff (A) In general The Commission may employ and compensate an executive director and any other additional personnel that are necessary to enable the Commission to perform the duties of the Commission. (B) Rates of pay Rates of pay for persons employed under subparagraph (A) shall be consistent with the rates of pay allowed for employees of a temporary organization under section 3161 of title 5, United States Code. (2) Not Federal employment Any individual employed under this subsection shall not be considered a Federal employee for the purpose of any law governing Federal employment. (3) Technical assistance (A) In general Subject to subparagraph (B), on request of the Commission, the head of a Federal agency shall provide technical assistance to the Commission. (B) Prohibition No Federal employees may be detailed to the Commission. (4) Volunteer services Notwithstanding section 1342 of title 31, United States Code, the Commission may accept and use voluntary and uncompensated services as the Commission determines necessary. (e) Administrative support services Upon request of the Commission, the Administrator of the General Services Administration shall provide to the Commission, on a reimbursable basis, the administrative support services necessary for the Commission to carry out its responsibilities under this Act. The involvement of the General Services Administration shall be limited to providing administrative support to the Commission, and such involvement shall terminate upon termination of the Commission. (f) Meeting location The Commission may meet virtually or in-person. (g) Appointment delays The Commission may begin to meet and carry out activities under this Act before all members of the Commission have been appointed if— (1) 90 days have passed since the date of the enactment of this Act; and (2) a majority of the members of the Commission have been appointed.

September 17, 2024 Reported with an amendment, committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union, and ordered to be printed

tv_txt: I 118th CONGRESS 2d Session H. R. 7764 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES March 20, 2024 Ms. Wasserman Schultz (for herself, Mr. Turner , Mr. Boyle of Pennsylvania , and Mr. Miller of Ohio ) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on House Administration A BILL To establish a commission to study the potential transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution, and for other purposes.

1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution Act . 2. Establishment of commission (a) In general There is established the Commission to Study the Potential Transfer of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History to the Smithsonian Institution (hereafter in this Act referred to as the Commission ). (b) Membership The Commission shall be composed of 9 members, of whom— (1) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the majority leader of the Senate; (2) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives; (3) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the minority leader of the Senate; (4) 2 voting members shall be appointed by the minority leader of the House of Representatives; and (5) 1 nonvoting member shall be appointed by the board of the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History. (c) Qualification Members of the Commission shall be appointed to the Commission from among individuals, or representatives of institutions or entities, who possess— (1) (A) a demonstrated commitment to the research, study, or promotion of Jewish American history, art, political or economic status, or culture; and (B) (i) expertise in museum administration; (ii) expertise in fund-raising for nonprofit or cultural institutions; (iii) experience in the study and teaching of Jewish American history; (iv) experience in the study and teaching of combating and countering antisemitism; (v) experience in studying the issue of the representation of Jewish Americans in art, life, history, and culture at the Smithsonian Institution; or (vi) extensive experience in public or elected service; (2) experience in the administration of, or the strategic planning for, museums; or (3) experience in the planning or design of museum facilities. (d) Deadline for initial appointment The initial members of the Commission shall be appointed not later than the date that is 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act. (e) Vacancies A vacancy in the Commission— (1) shall not affect the powers of the Commission; and (2) shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment was made. (f) Chairperson The Commission shall, by majority vote of all of the voting members, select 1 member of the Commission to serve as the Chairperson of the Commission. (g) Prohibition No employee of the Federal Government may serve as a member of the Commission. 3. Duties of commission (a) Reports and other deliverables Not later than 2 years after the date of the first meeting of the Commission, the Commission shall submit to the President and to Congress the report, plan, and recommendations described in paragraphs (1) through (3). (1) Report on issues A report that addresses the following issues relating to the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia, PA, and its environs (hereafter in this Act referred to as the Museum ): (A) The collections held by the Museum at the time of the report, the extent to which such collections are already represented in the Smithsonian Institution and Federal memorials at the time of the report, and the availability and cost of future collections to be acquired and housed in the Museum. (B) The impact of the Museum on educational and governmental efforts to study and counter antisemitism. (C) The financial assets and liabilities held by the Museum, and the cost of operating and maintaining the Museum. (D) The governance and organizational structure from which the Museum should operate if transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. (E) The financial and legal considerations associated with the potential transfer of the Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, including— (i) any donor or legal restrictions on the Museum’s collections, endowments, and real estate; (ii) costs associated with actions that will be necessary to resolve the status of employees of the Museum, if the Museum is transferred to the Smithsonian Institution; and (iii) all additional costs for the Smithsonian Institution that would be associated with operating and maintaining a new museum outside of the Washington, DC, metropolitan area. (F) The feasibility of the Museum becoming part of the Smithsonian Institution, taking into account the Museum’s potential impact on the Smithsonian’s existing facilities maintenance backlog, collections storage needs, and identified construction or renovation costs for new or existing museums. (2) Fund-raising plan A fund-raising plan that addresses the following topics: (A) The ability to support the transfer, operation, and maintenance of the Museum through contributions from the public, including potential charges for admission. (B) Any potential issues with funding the operations and maintenance of the Museum in perpetuity without reliance on appropriations of Federal funds. (3) Legislative recommendations A report containing recommendations regarding a legislative plan for transferring the Museum to the Smithsonian Institution, which shall include each of the following: (A) Proposals regarding the time frame, one-time appropriations level, and continuing appropriations levels that might be included in such legislation. (B) Recommendations for the future name of the Museum if it is transferred to the Smithsonian Institution. (b) National conference Not later than 2 years after the date on which the initial members of the Commission are appointed under section 2, the Commission may, in carrying out the duties of the Commission under this section, convene a national conference relating to the Museum, to be comprised of individuals committed to the advancement of the life, art, history, and culture of Jewish Americans. 4. Administrative provisions (a) Compensation (1) In general A member of the Commission— (A) shall not be considered to be a Federal employee for any purpose by reason of service on the Commission; and (B) shall serve without pay. (2) Travel expenses A member of the Commission shall be allowed a per diem allowance for travel expenses, at rates consistent with those authorized under subchapter I of chapter 57 of title 5, United States Code. (3) Gifts, bequests, and devises The Commission may solicit, accept, use, and dispose of gifts, bequests, or devises of money, services, or real or personal property for the purpose of aiding or facilitating the work of the Commission. Such gifts, bequests, or devises may be from the Museum. (4) Federal Advisory Committee Act Chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code, shall not apply to the Commission. (b) Termination The Commission shall terminate on the date that is 30 days after the date on which the final versions of the report, plan, and recommendations required under section 3 are submitted. (c) Funding The Commission shall be solely responsible for acceptance of contributions for, and payment of the expenses of, the Commission. (d) Director and staff of commission (1) Director and staff (A) In general The Commission may employ and compensate an executive director and any other additional personnel that are necessary to enable the Commission to perform the duties of the Commission. (B) Rates of pay Rates of pay for persons employed under subparagraph (A) shall be consistent with the rates of pay allowed for employees of a temporary organization under section 3161 of title 5, United States Code. (2) Not Federal employment Any individual employed under this subsection shall not be considered a Federal employee for the purpose of any law governing Federal employment. (3) Technical assistance (A) In general Subject to subparagraph (B), on request of the Commission, the head of a Federal agency shall provide technical assistance to the Commission. (B) Prohibition No Federal employees may be detailed to the Commission. (4) Volunteer services Notwithstanding section 1342 of title 31, United States Code, the Commission may accept and use voluntary and uncompensated services as the Commission determines necessary. (e) Administrative support services Upon request of the Commission, the Administrator of the General Services Administration shall provide to the Commission, on a reimbursable basis, the administrative support services necessary for the Commission to carry out its responsibilities under this Act. The involvement of the General Services Administration shall be limited to providing administrative support to the Commission, and such involvement shall terminate upon termination of the Commission. (f) Meeting location The Commission may meet virtually or in-person. (g) Appointment delays The Commission may begin to meet and carry out activities under this Act before all members of the Commission have been appointed if— (1) 90 days have passed since the date of enactment of this Act; and (2) a majority of the members of the Commission have been appointed.