Smithsonian Transparency and Historical Integrity Act of 2026

Section 1. Short Title; Findings. This Act may be cited as the 'Smithsonian Transparency and Historical Integrity Act of 2026.' Congress finds that the Smithsonian Institution serves as a national trust for the preservation of American heritage and must maintain public confidence through balanced, evidence-based exhibits that respect diverse viewpoints and do not suppress lawful expression. Section 2. Congressional Authorization for Exhibit Standards. (a) The Smithsonian Board of Regents shall, within 180 days of enactment, issue a public policy on the development and revision of exhibits and educational programs. The policy shall: (1) require that all exhibits be grounded in scholarly consensus or clearly identify competing historical interpretations; (2) prohibit the removal or alteration of an exhibit solely because it presents a viewpoint that is unpopular or critical of the United States, unless the exhibit contains demonstrably false factual claims; (3) ensure that any exhibit concerning race, gender, or identity includes multiple perspectives where the historical record supports them; and (4) provide for a written process for staff and public comment on proposed changes. (b) No exhibit may be removed or altered for content reasons without a prior review by a panel of at least three historians or curators not employed by the Smithsonian, chosen by the National Academy of Sciences. The panel's recommendation shall be advisory but must be publicly disclosed. Section 3. Funding and Oversight. (a) There is authorized to be appropriated $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2027 to the Smithsonian Office of the Inspector General specifically to audit compliance with this Act. The Inspector General shall report annually to Congress on any exhibit changes that resulted in content suppression or staff discipline. (b) Funding for the Smithsonian's general operating budget (currently $1.2 billion) shall not be reduced by more than 5% in any fiscal year except through a separate appropriation law. Any reduction intended to influence exhibit content shall be subject to the same due process requirements. Section 4. Sunset and Judicial Review. This Act shall sunset 10 years after enactment. Any person aggrieved by a violation of this Act may bring a civil action under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. The court may award injunctive relief and reasonable attorney fees. Section 5. Severability. If any provision of this Act is held invalid, the remainder shall continue in effect.