Smithsonian: Background, Funding, and Policy Issues (CRS Report for Congress)
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| Release Date |
July 27, 2006 |
| Report Number |
RL33560 |
| Report Type |
Report |
| Authors |
Susan Boren, Domestic Social Policy Division |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
Summary:
This report provides background and legislative history on the SmithsonianInstitution (SI) as well as delineating funding and current policy issues. It begins witha discussion about the initial acceptance of James Smithson's will and gift, andprovides legislative history including the final passage and enactment of the OrganicAct of 1846. It details the Smithsonian's acquisition and creation of other museumsthrough legislation and explores growing federal government involvement in theSmithsonian Institution. It also outlines funding levels for the SI museums andexplains the private trust account. Finally, it discusses the policy issue of privateversus federal funding, recent controversies over the Smithsonian's contract withCBS/Showtime, and the condition of Smithsonian buildings.
