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HR 109

A Resolution urging the Congress of the United States to make "Patriots' Day" a Federal holiday.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Missy Cerrato and 10 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania urges Congress to establish "Patriots' Day" as a federal holiday, though ambiguity exists about which date or historical event it commemorates.

Referred to Tourism, Recreation & Economic Development
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 109

Legislative bill overview

HR 109 is a Pennsylvania state resolution requesting that the U.S. Congress establish "Patriots' Day" as a federal holiday. The resolution does not create a holiday itself but rather urges Congress to take legislative action to recognize Patriots' Day—typically observed on September 11th in some states—at the federal level.

Why is this important

Federal holidays carry significant practical consequences, including mandatory closures for federal offices and banks, potential impacts on mail delivery, and economic effects on businesses. The designation also carries symbolic weight regarding which historical events and values the nation officially commemorates. If passed by Congress, this would represent a formal national commitment to memorializing a specific historical observance.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: "Patriots' Day" has different meanings across states (some observe it on September 11th, while Massachusetts and Maine celebrate it on the third Monday in April related to the American Revolution), creating uncertainty about which date or interpretation Congress would adopt.
  • Calendar crowding: Adding federal holidays reduces business days and increases costs for federal operations and private commerce, raising questions about whether this justifies the expense compared to existing commemorative days.
  • Political symbolism: The timing and framing around September 11th observances can be politically sensitive, with concerns that a federal designation might be perceived as politicizing national tragedy or diluting existing memorials like 9/11 Remembrance Day.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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