Bill > SB5159

This bill establishes a statewide "Trick-or-Treat Day" to be recognized on the last Saturday (or Friday) in October, addressing challenges associated with Halloween falling on a school week. The legislature finds that the traditional October 31st celebration creates problems such as learning loss, absenteeism, and difficulties for families to celebrate together. By moving trick-or-treating to the weekend before November 1st, the bill aims to reduce family stress and improve public safety by allowing children to trick-or-treat earlier in the day, before nightfall, and potentially enabling road closures that would normally be used by commuters during the school week. Specifically, the bill amends RCW 1.16.050 to add this new recognized day to the list of state holidays, though it is not considered a legal holiday for employment purposes. The recognized day allows local cities and towns flexibility to adjust the specific date based on weather conditions, with the intent of creating a more convenient and safer Halloween celebration for families and children across Washington state.

Government Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5159&Year=2025&Initiative=false