Bill > A03868

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 bill systematically updates multiple sections of New York state law, including the executive law, transportation law, vehicle and traffic law, town law, county law, general construction law, and personal property law, to replace all references to "Columbus Day" with "Indigenous People's Day". This means that in various legal contexts—such as flag display requirements, business day definitions, holiday observances, and appropriations for holiday celebrations—the second Monday in October will now be officially recognized as Indigenous People's Day. The change reflects a growing national movement to acknowledge the history and contributions of Indigenous peoples and to move away from celebrating Christopher Columbus, who is increasingly viewed critically for his role in colonization and mistreatment of Indigenous populations. The bill ensures that this change is comprehensive, updating the terminology across multiple areas of state law to create a consistent recognition of the holiday.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A3868