Summary of Bill S 1065

Title: Establishes Three King's Day as a School Holiday for All Public Schools in a City Having a Population of One Million or More Inhabitants

Bill Number: S 1065

Status: PRINT NUMBER 1065A

Introduced: January 08, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 1065 aims to officially designate Three King's Day (Día de los Reyes) as a school holiday for all public schools located in cities with a population of one million or more inhabitants. The bill seeks to recognize and celebrate the cultural significance of this holiday, which is traditionally observed in various Hispanic and Latino communities, marking the arrival of the Three Wise Men and the end of the Christmas season.

Key Provisions

• School Holiday Designation: The bill mandates that all public schools within qualifying cities observe Three King's Day as a holiday, thereby closing schools on this date.
• Population Requirement: The legislation specifically applies to cities with a population of one million or more, which primarily includes major urban areas.
• Implementation Timeline: The bill was introduced on January 08, 2025, and has undergone amendments and recommitment as of June 09, 2025.

Affected Parties

• Students and Families: Public school students in large cities will benefit from the holiday, allowing families to engage in cultural traditions associated with Three King's Day.
• Educators and School Staff: Teachers and school staff will have a day off to observe the holiday, promoting cultural awareness and inclusivity within the school environment.
• Community Organizations: Local organizations that celebrate Three King's Day may see increased participation and engagement from families and schools.

Legislative Actions and Timeline

• January 08, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the New York City Education Committee.
• June 09, 2025: The bill was amended and recommitted to the New York City Education Committee, followed by the printing of the updated version (1065A).

Related Bills

This bill is related to several prior-session bills, which include:
- S 3929
- S 184
- S 1356
- S 255
- A 4920 (companion bill)

These related bills may provide context or additional legislative efforts surrounding the recognition of cultural holidays in public education.

Conclusion

Bill S 1065 represents a significant step towards recognizing and celebrating cultural diversity within the educational system of large cities. By establishing Three King's Day as a school holiday, the bill aims to foster inclusivity and cultural appreciation among students and communities. The legislative process is ongoing, with amendments and discussions expected as it moves through the New York City Education Committee.