San Bruno National Archives closure faces Congressional opposition

A coalition of lawmakers, historians, and community advocates is opposing plans by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) to close its facility in San Bruno, California. U.S. Representative Kevin Mullin, joined by Representative Judy Chu and 35 other lawmakers, has urged the agency to reconsider the decision, citing the loss of irreplaceable historical documents.

The San Bruno facility houses critical records dating back to the 1850s, including immigration files from Angel Island, Alcatraz prison records, Chinese Exclusion Act documents, and tribal records essential for Native American legal claims. Advocates warn that many materials are too delicate for digitization or relocation.

NARA has stated that the closures are intended to increase efficiency as more records move to digital formats. In response, Rep. Mullin has introduced the National Archives Protection Act, which would require congressional approval before the agency can close any archives facility, federal records center, or research room.