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Archives are a foundational infrastructure for a democratic society. Archives hold vital records such as property records; birth, death, and marriage records; and other legal records stewarded by government archives. Funding for the stewardship of these records is essential to the continuity of government and civil society.
Critical infrastructure failures are one of the biggest threats to the continuity and existence of archives. When disasters such as floods, fires, and burst pipes occur, not only are archives destroyed, but also Americans lose access to vital records that allow them to participate in American society.
The Public Archives Resiliency Act (PARA) supports long-term resiliency for archival institutions, libraries, and museums in order to provide continuity and access to archival records. The legislation would utilize the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC) to direct funding toward archives at risk of critical infrastructure failure.
The Public Archives Resiliency Act was first introduced on December 12, 2024 in the 118th Congress (2023-2024) but it did not receive a vote. Advocates are currently working to get it reintroduced for the 119th Congress (2025-2026).
We are here in the legislative process.
Develop legislation and secure co-sponsors > Bill introduced in Senate > Bill assigned to committee(s) > Bill voted on by Senate > Bill introduced in House > Bill assigned to committee(s) > Bill voted on in House > 2 versions of the bill reconciled > Bill voted on by both chambers > President approval
Right now, our biggest need is for cosponsors so that we can re-introduce the legislation on solid ground. Can you meet with your legislator to ask them to cosponsor? If so, email us at info@archivists.org! The Committee on Public Policy will provide you with concrete support such as:
Are you part of an organization who is interested in endorsing PARA when it is introduced in the 119th Congress? Please email us at info@archivists.org!
Stay tuned to this website for future opportunities to engage in supporting the Public Archives Resiliency Act!
Supporters of PARA legislation introduced in the 118th Congress (2023-2024) included:
We hope to expand endorsements with the planned reintroduction of the legislation in the 119th (2025-2026) Congress. Please email us at info@archivists.org if you are interested in endorsing PARA!
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| PARA Flyer | 1.78 MB |