ARIZONA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Fifty-fifth Legislature Second Regular Session
	Senate: GOV DPA 5-2-0-0 | 3^rd Read 24-4-2-0

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SB 1497: Arizona America250 commission

Sponsor: Senator Leach, LD 11

Committee on Government & Elections

Overview

Creates, as session law, the Arizona America250 Commission.

History

The United States Semiquincentennial Commission was established in 2016 in order to inspire Americans to participate in the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.  The U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission is charged to work with private and public entities across the United States to make America250 a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all Americans (America250).

Provisions

1. Establishes the Arizona America250 Commission (Commission) in order to plan, encourage, develop and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and the impact of the citizens of Arizona on the nation's past, present and future. (Sec. 1)

2. States that the 11-member Commission consists of:

a) One member of the Senate;

b) One member of the House of Representatives;

c) One member who represents the historic preservation community;

d) One member who represents the tourism industry;

e) One member who represents the veterans community;

f) One member who represents the parks and recreation industry;

g) One member who represents the arts community;

h) One member who represents a recognized Indian tribe in Arizona;

i) One member who represents the education community;

j) One member who represents the business community; and

k) One member from a fraternal organization. (Sec. 1)

3. Outlines the duties of the members of the Commission and stipulates that the Commission must meet on the call of the chairperson. (Sec. 1)

4. Directs the Commission to do the following:

a) Plan, coordinate and implement an overall program to build public awareness of and participation in celebrating and commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.

b) Coordinate with local, state and federal agencies and private organizations on programs and projects to welcome and encourage national and international tourists.

c) Consider any related programs and plans developed by private, local, state or federal groups.

d) Conduct extensive public engagement, by December 31, 2026, to develop programs with other organizations, communities and agencies that may take place.

e) Draw attention to the honors, achievements, innovations and significance of the people in Arizona since before the founding of this state to the present day and showcase all counties in Arizona.

f) Designate special committees with representatives from stakeholder groups to develop, plan and coordinate activities.

g) Recommend ways for Arizona to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States through local and state legacy projects.

h) Emphasize the service and sacrifices of veterans who have secured and preserved American independence and freedom and encourage citizens of Arizona to honor them.

i) Celebrate and commemorate events and activities throughout Arizona. (Sec. 1)

5. Requires the Commission, by December 31 of each year, to submit a report of the activities of the Commission, the outputs and outcomes achieved and whether those achievements meet the Commission's plan and overall program to the Governor and the Legislature. (Sec. 1)

6. Repeals the Commission on October 1, 2027. (Sec. 1)

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10.                   SB 1497

11. Initials SJ  Page 0 Government & Elections

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