Georgia Senate Bill SB79

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/23
• Refer: 2/6/23

Caption

Holidays and Observances; the holidays observed in Georgia; revise

Impact

If enacted, SB79 could significantly alter the landscape of public holidays in Georgia. By officially recognizing the Tuesday after the first Monday in November as a state holiday, it promotes greater civic participation and acknowledgment of the electoral process. The bill may also necessitate adjustments in business operations, school schedules, and public services to accommodate the new public holiday, impacting various sectors that rely on regular schedules.

Summary

Senate Bill 79 aims to amend the holidays and observances recognized in the state of Georgia. The bill proposes the addition of a new state holiday to be observed on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November each year, a date that coincides with the general election day. The bill underscores the importance of this date by formalizing its recognition as a public holiday within state law, aligning state observance with a critical civic engagement point for the residents of Georgia.

Contention

While the bill presents a unified approach towards celebrating civic engagement, it may face some opposition. Critics may argue that adding another state holiday could lead to increased costs for businesses and a potential disruption of regular activities. Additionally, the requirement for the Governor to declare certain days as holidays, which might conflict with existing observances, could provoke discussion around the necessity and implications of such decisions. The nuances of balancing holiday observances with economic impacts and state affairs will likely be points of contention.

Notable_points

It should be noted that SB79 also includes provisions to repeal any conflicting laws, indicating a desire to streamline the legal framework surrounding holidays in Georgia. The bill aims to ensure that all holidays observed align with both federal recognition and the state's internal policies, facilitating a coherent understanding of legal holidays in the state. The implications of such legislative changes could prompt further inquiries into educational materials and community awareness surrounding election-related activities.