Gov. Kim Reynolds on Thursday signed an executive order establishing the Governor’s Task Force on Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, launching Iowa’s preparations for the nation’s semiquincentennial in 2026. The task force will be led by Lt. Gov. Chris Cournoyer and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig, who will coordinate events and initiatives marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The group will highlight Iowa’s contributions to the nation’s history and its ongoing role in shaping America’s future. The task force includes 21 appointed members representing state agencies, business leaders, veterans’ groups, and civic organizations, such as Secretary of State Paul Pate, Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) Director Debi Durham, and Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Director Kayla Lyon, to name a few. A final report outlining recommendations for Iowa’s participation in the America 250th celebration is due within 120 days of the order’s issuance.