An Act making August 10th Agent Orange Awareness Day in Massachusetts

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Shirley Arriaga and 19 co-sponsors

Designates August 10 as Agent Orange Awareness Day in Massachusetts, with the governor issuing annual proclamations to encourage observance and awareness.

Reported, referred to the committee on Joint Rules, reported, rules suspended and referred to the committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight

Overview

HD 5056 proposes to designate August 10th as Agent Orange Awareness Day in Massachusetts. The bill requires the Governor to annually issue a proclamation recognizing the day and recommending observance by the public. The measure includes an emergency declaration to take effect immediately upon enactment.

What the bill does

Designates August 10 as Agent Orange Awareness Day in Massachusetts.

Requires the Governor to annually issue a proclamation setting apart August 10 and to recommend appropriate observance.

Specifies the designation as part of an emergency law, intended to take effect immediately to preserve public convenience.

Key provisions

Legal framework: The designation would be codified in the Massachusetts General Laws (Part I, Title II, Chapter 6, Section 15XXXXX or similarly structured section). The governor’s annual proclamation would urge observation by the people in an appropriate manner.

Emergency clause: The act includes language declaring it an emergency law, meaning it is intended to take effect immediately upon passage.

Background in recitals: The bill’s preamble details historical context about Agent Orange (used in Vietnam during Operation Ranch Hand, 1961–1971), its health impacts (cancers and other serious illnesses), and the sacrifices of veterans, to justify the designation and recognition.

Who would be affected

Massachusetts residents and the general public, through increased public awareness and potential observances.

Veterans and families affected by Agent Orange exposure.

State and local governments, organizations, and schools that may organize or participate in awareness activities or educational programs prompted by the proclamation.

Procedural/timeline aspects

Introduced: September 18, 2025.

Filed: August 15, 2025 (House Docket No. 4688).

Status: Reported, referred to the committee on Joint Rules, with further actions including rules suspended and referral to the committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight.

Legislative actions noted: On 2025-09-18, referred to House Rules; on 2025-10-02, reported and referred within committees as indicated.

Fiscal/administrative considerations

The bill does not establish new programs, funding, or administrative entities. It primarily creates a ceremonial designation and encourages observance through a gubernatorial proclamation, implying minimal direct fiscal impact. Any costs would be associated with the Governor’s office in issuing annual proclamations and supporting public communications.

Bottom line

HD 5056 seeks a formal, annual acknowledgment of Agent Orange Awareness Day via a governor-issued proclamation, underscoring recognition of veterans affected by Agent Orange and promoting public awareness. The designation would be effective immediately upon enactment due to the emergency clause and would require ongoing annual proclamations by the governor.

Bill