National Archives Protection Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Durbin, Richard J. [D-IL]
- Committees
- Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 30, 2026
Bottom line
The bill aims to permanently safeguard the physical locations and public accessibility of established Federal records centers and archive facilities by restricting the Archivist's ability to close or significantly alter them.
What it actually does
This bill, the "National Archives Protection Act," amends title 44, United States Code, to explicitly prohibit the Archivist of the United States from closing or imposing unreasonable restrictions on public access to any existing Federal records center or archive facility established before the date of enactment. It also prevents major reconstruction, conversion, or rehabilitation projects on such facilities if they would necessitate relocating records for more than 180 days.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill is crucial for preserving historical records and ensuring consistent public access to vital government documents, preventing potential loss or disruption caused by facility closures or prolonged record relocations. They contend it protects the integrity of the National Archives system and upholds the public's right to access its history.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that this bill unduly restricts the Archivist's administrative flexibility and ability to modernize or consolidate facilities for efficiency or improved record management practices. They might contend that it could lead to the maintenance of outdated or underutilized facilities at taxpayer expense, hindering efforts to adapt to evolving archival needs and technologies.
The bill is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its direct implications within a minute.
Section 2, amending Section 2907 of title 44, United States Code
Prohibition on Closure or Major Alteration of Federal Records Centers
This provision adds a new subsection (b) to existing law, explicitly stating that the Archivist of the United States cannot close any Federal records center or archive facility that existed before the bill's enactment. It also prohibits the Archivist from placing unreasonable restrictions on public access to these facilities. Furthermore, it prevents any reconstruction or renovation work on these facilities if such work would require moving records for more than 180 days.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision is essential to safeguard invaluable historical and governmental records from potential disruption, loss, or reduced public access due to administrative decisions to close or extensively renovate facilities. They believe it guarantees the long-term stability and accessibility of the nation's archives, protecting public trust and historical integrity.
Critics contend
Critics might contend that this provision creates an inflexible mandate that could hinder NARA's ability to adapt to modern archival practices, consolidate redundant facilities, or upgrade infrastructure efficiently. They may argue it could force NARA to maintain outdated or underutilized physical spaces, potentially diverting resources from digital preservation or other critical functions.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances the desire for permanent, stable access to physical records against the need for administrative flexibility and efficiency in managing a vast and evolving archival system. It trades potential cost savings or modernization opportunities for guaranteed physical presence and access.