STATE JOINS HISTORIC NATIONAL EFFORT TO COMMEMORATE 250TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNITED STATES
HELENA, MT –Last week, Governor Greg Gianforte signed into law House Bill 377 – legislation establishing the “Montana 250th Commission,” part of a statewide and national effort to commemorate the United States Semiquincentennial. In partnership with America250, the commission will play a key role in promoting and coordinating civic engagement leading up to the 250th anniversary of the United States of America in 2026.
America250 is encouraging each U.S. state and territory, as well as the District of Columbia, to form its own America250 commission or state-designated entity to plan for the nation’s 250th anniversary. Over the next five years, America250 will work in full partnership with each of these state and territorial entities to facilitate coordination and collaboration, and to ensure the broadest possible participation and visibility during this historic commemoration. Montana has become the 33rd state to establish a Semiquincentennial commission.
“I’m thrilled to see Montana establish its Semiquincentennial commission – a key step that will help ensure that all Montanans will have the opportunity to participate in commemorating this historic milestone,” Rosie Rios, U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission Chair said. “I’d like to thank Governor Gianforte and members of the Montana legislature for their unanimous bipartisan support, and look forward to working with the commission and state leaders to coordinate the largest and most inclusive anniversary in our nation’s history. Big Sky Country — let’s make this an anniversary to remember.”
“As we approach our nation’s 250th anniversary, we must boost our civics education, ensuring young Montanans know more about American history. Our students should have a deeper understanding of the civic institutions born in our nation’s earliest years, which live on today, as well as the timeless ideals that guided our nation’s founding – freedom, liberty, equality, and justice,” Gov. Gianforte said. “I look forward to the work of the Montana 250th Commission to promote civic engagement in Montana and to celebrate 250 years of our nation.”
America's Field Trip
Engaging students nationwide to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary!
This contest invites students in grades 3–12 to share their perspectives on what America means to them — and earn the opportunity to travel for field trip experiences at some of the nation’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks.