Bill > S06144

This bill amends the New York State General Construction Law to officially recognize Kwanzaa as a public holiday, specifically designating the period from December 26th to January 1st as Kwanzaa. The bill adds Kwanzaa to the existing list of public holidays in the state, which already includes well-known observances like New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Independence Day, and Christmas. Kwanzaa is a week-long annual celebration of African American culture and heritage, typically observed from December 26th to January 1st, which was created in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga. By adding Kwanzaa to the list of public holidays, the bill formally acknowledges the cultural significance of this celebration and provides official recognition to a holiday that is important to many African Americans. The amendment is straightforward, simply inserting the description of Kwanzaa and its dates into the existing statute, and the act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Justice

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6144