Relative to National Day of Prayer.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Choi and 3 co-sponsors

The bill expresses California's support for observing a National Day of Prayer and may influence public messaging, without creating laws or funding.

In Assembly. Held at Desk.

#nationaldayofprayer

Summary of SCR 153 (2025-2026) – Relative to National Day of Prayer

Purpose and Intent

SCR 153 is a state Senate concurrent resolution in California expressing support for observing a National Day of Prayer.

The resolution recognizes the importance of prayer and urges observance at the national level, highlighting the value of faith-based reflection and community engagement.

Key Provisions and Changes

Formal expression of support: The resolution commendably acknowledges the National Day of Prayer and urges federal and state leaders to observe and participate in activities that reflect prayerful reflection, unity, and interfaith cooperation.

No mandates or funding: As a concurrent resolution, SCR 153 does not create new state laws, require state expenditures, or impose new regulatory obligations on individuals, businesses, or local governments.

Guidance to public institutions: The resolution may implicitly encourage state and local institutions, including schools and government agencies, to recognize the National Day of Prayer in an appropriate and respectful manner, consistent with existing laws and policies. It does not, by itself, establish official ceremonies, programs, or requirements.

Affected Parties and Scope

Notable beneficiaries or targets: The resolution primarily affects lawmakers, state agencies, and the general public by articulating statewide support for the National Day of Prayer. It may influence public messaging and commemorative practices without creating new legal duties.

Scope: Applies within the State of California to express solidarity with the concept of a National Day of Prayer; does not alter constitutional rights, religious liberty protections, or the authority of political subdivisions.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

Introduction and referrals: Introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Rules, linked to its joint nature with Assembly consideration.

Committee action: The bill advanced from committee on April 6, 2026, and was subsequently moved toward the floor.

Floor actions:

April 15, 2026: From committee, ordered to third reading.
May 7, 2026: Read, adopted, and ordered to the Assembly with a strong affirmative vote (Ayes 32, Noes 1), indicating broad cross-party support.

Status: As of the latest action, SCR 153 has passed the Senate and been transmitted to the Assembly for consideration.

Practical Impact

The resolution serves as a formal expression of support and may influence official ceremonial practices, proclamations, or public messaging related to the National Day of Prayer.

It does not create legal rights or obligations, nor does it allocate funds or authorize programs. Its impact is largely symbolic and aspirational, reflecting the Legislature’s stance on the national observance and its potential moral or communal significance.

If you’d like, I can compare SCR 153 to similar memorials or provide a brief overview of the National Day of Prayer’s status at the federal level to provide additional context.