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H 3419

An Act establishing Indigenous Peoples day

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by David DeCoste and 2 co-sponsors

H 3419 would have the Governor annually proclaim August 9 as Indigenous Peoples Day in Massachusetts, ceremonial and voluntary, with school activities and public observances.

Accompanied H3292
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Bill Summary · H 3419

Summary: H 3419 – An Act Establishing Indigenous Peoples Day (Massachusetts)

Overview

H 3419, introduced February 27, 2025, would establish Indigenous Peoples Day in Massachusetts through an annual governor’s proclamation designating August 9 as Indigenous Peoples Day. The bill adds a ceremonial recognition rather than creating a paid holiday. It is accompanied by H 3292, and both measures are part of the same effort.

What the bill would do

  • Create a new provision in Chapter 6 of the General Laws (Section 12VVV).
  • Mandate that the Governor annually issue a proclamation setting apart August 9 as Indigenous Peoples Day.
  • Recommend that the observance be observed by the people, with appropriate exercises in schools and otherwise.

Key provisions

  • New Section 12VVV (Chapter 6): The Governor shall issue an annual proclamation designating the 9th day of August as Indigenous Peoples Day and recommending observance.
  • Observance elements: The proclamation should encourage appropriate activities in schools and other suitable observances by the public.

Who would be affected

  • Government: The Governor’s Office would issue the annual proclamation.
  • Education sector: Schools would be encouraged to include appropriate exercises or curricula related to Indigenous Peoples Day.
  • General public: The day would be observed through recommended statewide recognition, though observance remains voluntary and ceremonial.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Filed: January 13, 2025; House docket No. 3419.
  • Referral: February 27, 2025, to the Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.
  • Senate action: Senate concurred on February 27, 2025.
  • Accompaniment: H 3419 is accompanied by H 3292 (companion measure).
  • Hearing: Scheduled for June 4, 2025, in Gardner Auditorium (06/04/2025, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM).
  • Related bill: HD 865 is listed as related (replaces).

Fiscal and practical considerations

  • The bill envisions a ceremonial proclamation with educational and observance guidance but does not specify funding or appropriations. Any costs would likely be administrative or tied to school activities, not mandated expenditures.

Bottom line

H 3419 would formally recognize Indigenous Peoples Day in Massachusetts through a yearly governor’s proclamation on August 9, encouraging educational and cultural observances. It emphasizes voluntary observance and school-based activities, without establishing a paid holiday. The measure is paired with a companion bill (H 3292) and is undergoing committee review with a scheduled public hearing.

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

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