119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 7431
The Congressional Civics Act of 2026 would require all members of Congress to pass a civics examination demonstrating knowledge of American history and government. The 25-question test, drawn randomly from a bank of 100 questions, covers topics ranging from colonial history to the three branches of government, with five questions each on twenty different topics. Members elected or appointed to Congress would be unable to take office unless they pass the exam within two weeks of their election or appointment; those who fail would create a vacancy. Additionally, until a proposed constitutional amendment is ratified, the bill would temporarily require sitting members to pass the same civics exam to be assigned to congressional committees. Congress would establish and approve the examination questions every ten years, with the House and Senate clerks administering the test for free online, allowing unlimited public access and maintaining a public database of those who pass.