Bill > S02227

This bill changes the designation of the public holiday currently known as Columbus Day to Indigenous People's Day, effective beginning the second Monday in October 2025. The legislation systematically updates multiple sections of New York state law to replace references to "Columbus Day" with "Indigenous People's Day" across various legal codes, including the executive law, transportation law, vehicle and traffic law, town law, county law, general construction law, and personal property law. By making these comprehensive changes, the bill ensures that the holiday will be consistently referred to by its new name in official documents and statutes. The modification reflects a growing national movement to recognize and honor the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples, while moving away from celebrating Christopher Columbus, whose historical legacy is increasingly viewed as problematic due to his role in colonization and the subsequent harm to Indigenous populations. The bill's implementation is immediate, with the new holiday designation taking effect in October 2025, giving state agencies and organizations time to prepare for the change.

Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2227