SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5565
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As Reported by Senate Committee On:
Government Operations & Security, February 17, 2015
Title: An act relating to recognizing César Chávez day.
Brief Description: Recognizing César Chávez day.
Sponsors: Senators McCoy, McAuliffe, Miloscia, Frockt, Hill, Pedersen, Hasegawa, Hobbs, Darneille, Kohl-Welles, Keiser, Conway and Chase.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Government Operations & Security: 2/09/15, 2/17/15 [DP].
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS & SECURITY |
Majority Report: Do pass.
Signed by Senators Roach, Chair; Pearson, Vice Chair; Liias, Ranking Minority Member; Habib and McCoy.
Staff: Samuel Brown (786-7470)
Background: A variety of dates are specially recognized in Washington without being considered legal holidays. For example the second Sunday in October is recognized as Washington State Children's Day, and April 16 is recognized as Mother Joseph Day. California recognizes César Chávez Day on March 31, or the Monday or Friday preceding or following that date, which serves as a school holiday and a paid holiday for state employees.
Summary of Bill: March 31 is recognized as César Chávez Day, but not considered a school holiday or legal holiday for any purpose.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Not requested.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.
Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: We need to acknowledge individuals who created the great fabric of history in Washington so we can understand why things happened – good, bad, and ugly. In some cases this is to study history so we don’t repeat ourselves, and gain knowledge to improve moving forward. César Chávez was an important part of this history. He was a deeply committed samaritan and a charitable and dedicated organizer. The best way to honor a man who aligns with the Civil Rights movement is to have a day of observance. César Chávez’s enduring legacy lives in all who share his values of service, hope, determination, and community. This bill honors his legacy as an educator and civil rights leader, but also as a humble man. This reminds us that every job has dignity, every life has value, everyone should be able to advance as they are able. This measure would have an impact on rural Washington and our young people, especially those living in agricultural communities.
Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator McCoy, prime sponsor; Juan Carlos Ruiz-Duran, South Puget Sound Community College Latino Student Union; Gloria Burton, Catholic Housing Services; Mario Villanueva, U.S. Dept. of Agriculture.