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HB 407

State holiday; exclusively recognize Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday on the third Monday of January.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kabir Karriem

Mississippi bill would establish MLK Jr.'s birthday as exclusive state holiday in January, eliminating the current combined observance with Robert E. Lee's birthday.

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Bill Summary · HB 407

Legislative bill overview

HB 407 would establish Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday as an exclusively recognized state holiday in Mississippi on the third Monday of January. This change would replace the current practice in Mississippi, which observes both MLK Day and Robert E. Lee's birthday on the same day (a combined holiday called "Martin Luther King, Jr. and Robert E. Lee's Birthday").

Why is this important

Mississippi is currently one of only three U.S. states that officially recognizes Confederate General Robert E. Lee's birthday alongside MLK Day, a practice widely viewed as offensive and contradictory. Changing this would align Mississippi with the vast majority of states and eliminate a symbolic gesture many consider divisive and historically inappropriate.

Potential points of contention

  • Historical reconciliation debate: Opponents may argue the bill erases Southern history or that removing Lee's recognition is politically motivated, while supporters see it as necessary racial justice
  • State identity and symbolism: Question of what holidays a state officially endorses sends messages about its values and who it honors
  • Implementation details: Unclear whether this bill completely removes Lee's birthday recognition or simply decouples it from MLK Day observance

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

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