Jeff Bingaman United States Senator from New Mexico

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jeff Bingaman and Pete Domenici today said they are pleased that legislation that takes a first step toward creating a national museum focusing on the history and culture of the Latino community in America has been signed into law.

The bill, which the New Mexico Senators cosponsored, creates a 23-member Commission charged with creating a plan for constructing a museum honoring the contributions Hispanics have made to the United States. The bill was introduced by Senators Ken Salazar (D-CO) and Mel Martinez (R-FL.).

“This is the first step in making this national museum a reality,” Bingaman said. “I look forward to working in the years to come to ensure this project to recognize the many contributions Hispanics have made to this country moves forward.”

“This law now sets in motion a process for a national museum to recognize the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans in this great country. I’m pleased with this development and hope New Mexicans can play a key role in this project,” said Domenici.

The Commission will be charged with convening within 18 months a national conference to bring stakeholders, experts, policymakers and other interested parties together to discuss the museum's viability; developing a fundraising plan to create an extensive public-private partnership; and submitting to Congress within 24 months of its national conference a detailed report recommending a plan of action for taking the museum from concept to reality.