HR 1329

Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Act

Summary

Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Act This bill authorizes the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum to be located on a particular site within the Reserve of the National Mall in Washington, DC. Specifically, the bill designates the South Monument site as the location for the museum; however, the President may designate an alternative site within 180 days of the bill's enactment. (The site is the undeveloped land across the National Mall from the National Museum of African American History and Culture.) Administrative jurisdiction of the site must be transferred to the Smithsonian Institution.  The Board of Regents of the Smithsonian Institution must have the approval of specified federal entities (e.g., the Commission of Fine Arts) to plan, design, and construct a museum building. The bill (1) outlines the criteria for considering site and design proposals, and (2) requires the Smithsonian Institution to reimburse for costs resulting from the building approval process. The bill directs the museum to be dedicated to preserving, researching, and presenting the history, achievements, and lived experiences of biological women in the United States. Under this bill, the museum may not identify, present, describe, or depict any biological male as a female. In carrying out its duties, the museum's advisory council must (1) seek and utilize guidance from a broad array of knowledgeable and respected sources reflecting the diversity of the political viewpoints and authentic experiences held by women in the United States, and (2) seek guidance for the creation and substantial revision of exhibits and programs.

Bill status

Status
Failed
Sponsor
Rep. Nicole Malliotakis [R-NY-11]
Cosponsors
231
Policy area
Arts, Culture, Religion
Introduced
2025-02-13
Latest action
2026-05-21: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.

Committee referrals

Recent actions

  • 2026-05-21: Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
  • 2026-05-21: On passage Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 204 - 216 (Roll no. 188).
  • 2026-05-21: Failed of passage/not agreed to in House On passage Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 204 - 216 (Roll no. 188).
  • 2026-05-21: On motion to recommit Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 209 - 209 (Roll no. 187).
  • 2026-05-21: The previous question on the motion to recommit was ordered pursuant to clause 2(b) of rule XIX.

Votes