This bill authorizes the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum to be located within the Reserve of the National Mall , overriding previous restrictions on development in that area. It also streamlines the process for designating a site under the jurisdiction of another federal agency, requiring notification to the agency and relevant Congressional committees, followed by the prompt transfer of administrative jurisdiction to the Smithsonian Institution. Furthermore, the legislation amends existing law to ensure the Museum's Council actively seeks and utilizes guidance from a broad array of knowledgeable and respected sources to represent the diverse political viewpoints and authentic experiences of women in the United States. This mandate applies to both the creation and substantial revision of exhibits and programs, with specific definitions provided for "broad array" and "knowledgeable and respected source." Finally, the bill requires the Smithsonian Secretary to submit biennial reports to Congress detailing actions taken to comply with these diversity and representation requirements.
This bill authorizes the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum to be located within the Reserve of the National Mall , overriding previous restrictions on development in that area. It also streamlines the process for designating a site under the jurisdiction of another federal agency, requiring notification to the agency and relevant Congressional committees, followed by the prompt transfer of administrative jurisdiction to the Smithsonian Institution. Furthermore, the legislation amends existing law to ensure the Museum's Council actively seeks and utilizes guidance from a broad array of knowledgeable and respected sources to represent the diverse political viewpoints and authentic experiences of women in the United States. This mandate applies to both the creation and substantial revision of exhibits and programs, with specific definitions provided for "broad array" and "knowledgeable and respected source." Finally, the bill requires the Smithsonian Secretary to submit biennial reports to Congress detailing actions taken to comply with these diversity and representation requirements.