Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1816

Introduced
11/2/23  

Caption

Further providing for the designation of legal holidays; and making a repeal.

Impact

The impact of HB 1816 could be significant, as it may modify how various holidays are recognized officially and the related implications for state functions. This could alter scheduling for state government services, education calendar alignments, and the observance of holidays across communities. It also opens the door for future discussions on the appropriate recognition of diverse cultural festivity, which can be a point of contention among constituents and lawmakers alike.

Summary

House Bill 1816 addresses the designation of legal holidays within the state, proposing amendments to existing laws that define and regulate public holidays. This bill aims to streamline the process of recognizing certain days as legal holidays, potentially adjusting the list to reflect current social values and practical needs. The consideration of such changes indicates an active legislative focus on ensuring that legal holiday designations remain relevant to the residents of the state.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB 1816 seems to be a mix of support and caution. Proponents argue that the bill is needed to better align state law with modern practices and societal expectations concerning holidays. However, there are likely concerns from certain segments regarding which holidays may be prioritized or removed, highlighting the sensitivities involved in altering long-standing traditions and observances.

Contention

Debate around HB 1816 centers on the implications of altering established legal holidays. Lawmakers have raised questions about how the criteria for designating holidays might be set—whether it should include considerations for cultural representation or be strictly utilitarian. This discussion has attracted varying opinions, as different groups within the community advocate for the acknowledgment of particular days based on historical, cultural, or economic significance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB790

Further providing for the designation of legal holidays.

PA HB1945

Further providing for the designation of legal holidays.

PA HB1815

In general provisions, further providing for legal holidays; and making a repeal.

PA A1276

Designates Eid Ul-Fitr and Eid Ul-Adha as State and public holidays.

PA A1217

Establishes Vaisakhi and Bandi Chhor Divas as public holidays in this State.

PA A5837

Establishes Vaisakhi and Bandi Chhor Divas as public holidays in this State.

PA SB0050

Holidays: other; "Juneteenth"; designate as a public holiday and observe on June 19. Amends secs. 1 & 2 of 1865 PA 124 (MCL 435.101 & 435.102).

PA A2441

Removes Election Day as State and public holiday.

PA A4158

Removes Election Day as State and public holiday.

PA S2074

Establishes State holiday on September 11 of each year.

Similar Bills

LA HB539

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LA SB245

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LA HB876

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LA SB108

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LA HB591

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LA HB509

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LA SB191

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LA HB431

Provides relative to certain campaign finance penalties applicable to certain political committees and changes the date of the presidential preference primary and elections held at the same time