The Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act mandates the creation of a time capsule to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. The Architect of the Capitol is responsible for its creation and burial within the Capitol Visitor Center by July 4, 2026 , with the location requiring approval from relevant congressional committees. Congressional leadership, specifically the Speaker and Minority Leaders of both chambers, will jointly determine the capsule's contents. These contents must include a joint letter from these offices and commemorative coins , with all items selected to be made of materials that pose a low risk of degrading over time. The leadership may consult with experts like the Smithsonian Secretary for guidance on appropriate items. This time capsule is designed to remain sealed for 250 years, with its unsealing scheduled for July 4, 2276 . At that time, the Speaker of the House will present the capsule to the 244th Congress, which will then decide how to preserve or utilize its historical contents.