HR 4702
In CommitteeHouse
Founding of United States
Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America.
This status may be delayed. See Action History below for the latest updates.
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- Introduced: The bill is filed and assigned a number.
- Committee: A subject-matter committee holds hearings, takes public testimony, and decides whether to advance the bill.
- Floor Vote: The full chamber (House or Senate) debates and votes on the bill.
- Opposite Chamber: The bill repeats the committee and floor vote process in the other chamber.
- Governor: The Governor reviews the bill and decides whether to sign or veto it.
- Signed: The bill has been signed into law.
AI Analysis
This resolution commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States' founding in 2026, highlighting foundational principles like equality and federalism, and encouraging Washington residents to participate in educational and civic events celebrating the nation's history and ideals.
- Formally recognizes the 250th anniversary (Semiquincentennial) of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2026.
- Highlights core founding principles including equality, inalienable rights (life, liberty, pursuit of happiness), and government by consent of the governed.
- Emphasizes the importance of federalism—the division of power between national and state governments—as a key feature of American governance.
- Encourages Washington residents, schools, civic groups, and businesses to engage in commemorative activities that promote civic education, community involvement, and historical reflection.
- Affirms Washington State’s role in U.S. history and its contributions to national development, culture, economy, and defense.
Who is affected
- Washington residents — Residents of Washington State are encouraged to participate in or support commemorative events celebrating the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding.
- Educational institutions and teachers — Schools and educators may use the resolution as a framework for civics education and activities related to American history and government.
- Civic organizations and local governments — Local governments, nonprofits, and community groups may organize or support events tied to the Semiquincentennial, with the resolution serving as a symbolic endorsement.
- Local businesses — Businesses may participate in or sponsor related events, especially those with a historical, patriotic, or educational focus.
Pro/Con Analysis
Stronger case for benefits
Potential Benefits (5)
The resolution provides symbolic encouragement for schools and educators to integrate civics and American history into curricula and activities around the Semiquincentennial, potentially enriching civic literacy for students across the state.
EducationRef: WHEREAS clauses 2–5, 7–8, and 10The resolution affirms local governments’ role in organizing and supporting community events, reinforcing their capacity to lead civic engagement efforts without imposing new mandates or costs.
Local GovernmentRef: WHEREAS clause 10 and resolution textBy highlighting foundational principles such as government by consent and federalism, the resolution may foster broader public understanding of democratic institutions, which can support civic trust and reduce susceptibility to misinformation.
Public SafetyRef: WHEREAS clause 6 and resolution textThe resolution reaffirms core constitutional values—equality, inalienable rights, and consent of the governed—which may strengthen public discourse around civil rights and democratic participation, especially in contrast to rising polarization.
Rights & LibertiesRef: WHEREAS clause 9 and resolution textLocal businesses—especially small, community-oriented ones—may benefit from increased visibility and participation in Semiquincentennial events, though this is voluntary and non-binding.
Business & EmploymentRef: WHEREAS clause 11 and resolution text
Who Is Most Affected
Students and educators may gain access to new civic education materials and event frameworks, though implementation depends on local school districts and available resources.
Civic and community organizations may find the resolution a useful tool to mobilize volunteers and frame events, but no new funding or legal authority is provided.
Small and medium-sized local businesses may benefit from increased foot traffic or sponsorship opportunities during commemorative events, but participation is optional and not guaranteed.
The resolution reinforces symbolic alignment with national ideals but does not change legal rights or obligations for any group.
State and local governments face no new costs or mandates; the resolution is purely advisory and commemorative.