Bill 119 HR 794, also known as the Lunar New Year Federal Holiday Act, aims to amend title 5 of the United States Code to designate Lunar New Year Day as a Federal holiday. This bill seeks to recognize and celebrate the cultural significance of Lunar New Year, which is observed by many Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the United States.
If passed, this legislation would establish Lunar New Year Day as a day off for Federal employees, allowing them to celebrate this important holiday with their families and communities. In addition to recognizing Lunar New Year, the bill also includes provisions for other purposes, which may include promoting cultural diversity and inclusion in the Federal workforce.
Supporters of the bill argue that designating Lunar New Year as a Federal holiday would demonstrate the government's commitment to recognizing and celebrating the cultural diversity of the American population. Critics, however, may raise concerns about the potential cost and logistical challenges of adding another Federal holiday to the calendar.
Overall, Bill 119 HR 794 represents an effort to acknowledge and honor the traditions and customs of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities in the United States by establishing Lunar New Year Day as a Federal holiday.