Senators Call for Investigation into Smithsonian Institution's Potential Anti-Lobbying Act Violations

Strategic Insights -

Texas Senators John Cornyn and Congressman Randy Weber sent a letter to Chief Justice John Roberts and Smithsonian Institution Chancellor John Roberts, expressing concerns about potential violations of the Anti-Lobbying Act by Smithsonian Institution staff regarding the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The legislation, signed into law on July 4, 2025, directs NASA to transfer a space vehicle involved in the Commercial Crew Program. However, the Smithsonian Institution allegedly took steps to oppose the provision, which raises concerns under the Anti-Lobbying Act. The senators urge a comprehensive internal review of the Institution's communications, expenditures, and outreach activities related to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Key Takeaways:

  • The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed into law on July 4, 2025, includes a provision directing NASA to transfer a space vehicle involved in the Commercial Crew Program.
  • The Smithsonian Institution allegedly took affirmative steps to oppose the passage and implementation of the provision, including contacting Senate committee staff and engaging members of the press.
  • The senators assert that these activities raise significant concerns under the Anti-Lobbying Act, which prohibits the use of appropriated funds for communications intended to influence members of the public to pressure Congress.
  • A comprehensive internal review of the Institution's communications, expenditures, and outreach activities related to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is requested.
  • The senators believe that the Smithsonian Institution's credibility depends on an unwavering commitment to legal and ethical standards, and a prompt and thorough investigation into the matter is necessary.

Statistics:

  • The One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into law on July 4, 2025 (Source: U.S. Government).
  • The provision directing NASA to transfer a space vehicle involved in the Commercial Crew Program was included in the legislation (Source: One Big Beautiful Bill Act).
  • The Anti-Lobbying Act prohibits the use of appropriated funds for communications intended to influence members of the public to pressure Congress regarding legislation or appropriations matters (Source: 18 U.S.C. § 1913).
  • The Smithsonian Institution receives annual appropriations from Congress, subjecting it to the restrictions imposed by the Anti-Lobbying Act (Source: Smithsonian Institution).

Sources:

  • Letter from Senator John Cornyn and Congressman Randy Weber to Chief Justice John Roberts and Smithsonian Institution Chancellor John Roberts (August 7, 2025)
  • One Big Beautiful Bill Act (signed into law on July 4, 2025)
  • 18 U.S.C. § 1913 (2018)