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Committee hears resolution recognizing 250th anniversary of Declaration of Independence
Summary
House Joint Resolution 6 would mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence; proponents from lineage societies and the Montana 250 Commission testified in favor and described planned events and educational efforts. No opposition was recorded and the hearing concluded without a vote.
Representative introduced House Joint Resolution 6 (HJ6), a nonbinding resolution recognizing the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and encouraging Montanans to celebrate the milestone. The sponsor said July 4, 2026, will mark the nation’s 250th birthday and described the resolution as an effort to promote civic engagement and historical education.
Proponents included members of the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Sons of the American Revolution and Montana’s 250 Commission. Austin James, speaking for the secretary referenced by the testimony, urged the committee to pass HJ6 and said the measure is "more than a commemoration" — a reminder to preserve the founding principles. Jayne Hamman and Steve Armstrong discussed local preservation and planned education events; Chris Averill, chair of the Montana 250 Commission, said the commission would coordinate learning sessions and public activities across the state.
Committee members asked a small number of procedural and historical questions; proponents emphasized civic education and several speakers invited lawmakers to attend scheduled commemorative events, including a planned Rotunda program on April 18. The hearing closed without recorded opposition and no committee vote was taken during the session.
