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S 4649

Changes date of "Juneteenth Day" in NJ to June 19 of each year.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Cryan and 2 co-sponsors

New Jersey bill fixes Juneteenth observance to June 19 annually instead of adjusting the date based on weekday occurrence.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate State Government, Wagering, Tourism & Historic Preservation Committee
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Bill Summary · S 4649

Legislative bill overview

S 4649 would establish June 19 as the fixed annual date for observing Juneteenth Day in New Jersey, rather than observing it on whatever date June 19 falls within the workweek. This change standardizes the holiday to always occur on its historical date, similar to how many states now observe the federal Juneteenth National Independence Day holiday.

Why is this important

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas learned of their emancipation. Fixing the observance date to June 19 ensures the holiday is celebrated on its actual historical date, which carries symbolic significance for recognizing this pivotal moment in American history. For workers and government operations, it clarifies whether the holiday falls on a weekday or weekend with no floating adjustments.

Potential points of contention

  • Payroll and scheduling complexity: Businesses and government agencies would need to adjust systems if the holiday sometimes falls on weekends, potentially creating inconsistencies in holiday pay practices across years
  • Federal-state alignment: New Jersey may be clarifying its own observance practice relative to the federally-recognized Juneteenth National Independence Day, which could require coordination with federal holiday schedules
  • Weekend holiday treatment: Questions about whether employees receive compensation or an alternate day off when Juneteenth falls on Saturday or Sunday remain unaddressed in the bill summary

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

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