Bill · S. 5632· Senate(119-S-5632)
National Archives Protection Act
- Introduced
- 9/30/2026
- Last activity
- 9/30/2026 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. (text: CR S5264)
- Sponsored by
- Richard Durbin
- Cosponsors
- - 3 - 0
- Introduced
- In Committee
What this bill would do
S. 5632, known as the National Archives Protection Act, was introduced in the Senate on September 30, 2026. The bill amends title 44, United States Code. Its main purpose is to stop the closure of Federal records centers and archives. Under the bill, the Archivist is prohibited from closing existing record centers or archive facilities established before the enactment date. It also bans placing unreasonable restrictions on public access to these facilities. Additionally, the legislation stops any reconstruction, conversion, or rehabilitation of these facilities if the work requires relocating records for more than 180 days.
Yes· 3 of 4
Does this make what the government does easier for the public to see?+5
The bill prohibits the closure of federal records centers and unreasonable restrictions on public access, ensuring government transparency and accountability.
Does this protect the individual right to speak freely?+3
Ensuring public access to historical and federal records protects the public's ability to research and share information.
Would students be better off under this?+3
Students and academic researchers benefit from the continued accessibility and stability of federal records centers and archives.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
-
Protection of Access to Records: Section 2 of the bill prevents the Archivist from closing or putting unreasonable restrictions on public access to any record center or archive facility established before the enactment date, which ensures people keep their ability to use these facilities.
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Stability of Record Locations: Section 2 stops the Archivist from reconstructing, converting, or rehabilitating a center or facility if the work would force the relocation of records for more than 180 days, keeping records in place for those who rely on them.
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- Lack of Textual Evidence: The provided text does not contain any specific sections or provisions that outline potential negative consequences or burdens for individuals or groups of people in the United States.
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Governance And Ideology
- Improves Government Transparency+5Improves Freedom Of Speech+3
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Good For Students+3
- Education And Technology
- Improves Internet Access+2
- 9/30/2026
- Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. (text: CR S5264)
- 3 Cosponsors added.
- Introduced in Senate
Tammy DuckworthDemocrat · Illinois
Alex PadillaDemocrat · California
Adam SchiffDemocrat · California