Smithsonian Introduces Rare Admission Charge

“In a rare move, the Smithsonian is going to charge admission for part of a new permanent exhibition called ‘Butterflies and Plants: Partners in Evolution.’ Admission to the Smithsonian’s Washington museums has always been free, and the legislation and wills creating four of its museums… specifically ban admission fees. But in recent years some lawmakers have been pushing Smithsonian officials to find new ways of meeting expenses.”