Boyle, Carey Introduce No Wasted Space Act

May 14, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Brendan F. Boyle (D-PA-02) and Mike Carey (R-OH-15) introduced the No Wasted Space Act . This legislation will help establish a commission to study potential uses of the Arts and Industries Building on the National Mall. The building currently serves as a temporary space used for limited events, concerts, and meetings. “150 years ago, Congress dedicated the proceeds of the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition, America’s first World’s Fair, to help build a national museum in Washington, D.C.,” said Congressman Boyle. “Today, that building, the Arts and Industries Building, sits underused and neglected. As we prepare to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we are taking action to restore this historic building and put it to use for the benefit of every American.” “Historic buildings in Washington, D.C. should not sit vacant when there is potential for them to serve the public once again,” said Congressman Carey. “As the second-oldest Smithsonian building, the Arts and Industries Building has long been a part of our National Mall, and it deserves to be utilized to its full potential in the years ahead. I look forward to taking a step towards preserving the building’s historic character while creating new opportunities for public engagement and education.” Background: This act establishes a commission to study potential uses of the Arts and Industries Building on the National Mall. The commission shall be composed of nine voting members appointed by the Senate majority leader, Senate minority leader, Speaker of the House of Representatives, and House minority leader. They shall each appoint two voting members that have relevant experience and interests. The Smithsonian Board of Regents shall appoint one voting member who may not be a sitting member of the House, Senate, or Supreme Court. The commission’s report must include successful educational institutions serving visiting families, museums, and cultural institutions not on the National Mall, non-Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C., tenants affected by federal office moves, and the cost of converting the Arts and Industries Building into a modern museum. The full text of the No Wasted Space Act can be found here .