New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire Senate Bill SB481

Introduced
12/13/23  
Refer
12/13/23  
Report Pass
4/3/24  
Engrossed
4/12/24  
Refer
4/12/24  

Caption

Relative to establishing Juneteenth, June 19, as an annual holiday.

Impact

With the enactment of SB 481, the State’s holiday calendar will be modified to officially include Juneteenth, thus impacting businesses, schools, and government operations. This addition signifies a broader commitment to recognizing the historical context of African American struggles and achievements. Employers may need to adjust their policies regarding holiday pay and employee time off to accommodate this new holiday, which could require additional resources and planning.

Summary

Senate Bill 481 aims to establish Juneteenth, recognized on June 19, as an annual holiday in the state of New Hampshire. This legislative move adds Juneteenth to the list of legal holidays, thereby acknowledging its importance as a celebration of the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the U.S. The bill reflects a growing recognition of Juneteenth as a significant date in American history, promoting awareness and education on the contributions and history of African Americans in the state and country at large.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 481 appears largely positive, with support stemming from various community members and activists advocating for the recognition of Juneteenth. This support highlights a desire for inclusivity and the acknowledgment of important cultural milestones. However, there may also be some contention regarding the logistics of adding another holiday to the calendar and how it could impact existing holiday structures, though specific opposition was not highlighted in the available discussions.

Contention

One notable point of contention may arise from discussions around the implications of adding a new holiday—particularly how it alters the existing work calendar and any associated economic impacts. While advocates champion the bill for cultural recognition, opponents might raise concerns about the practicality of additional holiday observances, especially in sectors where productivity and operational consistency are paramount.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB359

Relative to legal holidays.

NH HB180

Renaming Columbus Day as Indigenous People's Day.

NH SB71

Relative to workers' compensation for firefighter cancer disease and establishing a commission to study the implementation of optional annual cancer screenings.

NH SB159

Establishing a committee to study unlimited service area permits for landfills and out of state waste coming into New Hampshire.

NH HB137

Relative to boating safety equipment rules and vessel numbering rules, and establishing a committee to study boat registrations fees.

NH SB97

Relative to the use of animals in product testing.

NH HB235

Establishing a committee to study the landlord tenant mediation program.

NH SB90

Establishing a commission to study charitable gambling.

NH HB346

Relative to the right of any infant born alive to appropriate medical care and treatment.

NH HB46

Establishing a committee to study replacement of bail commissioners with court magistrates and relative to delinquent payment of accounts by on premises and off premises licensees and relative to electronic payments to employee debit cards.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.