HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

H.B. NO.

1555

THIRTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2024

H.D. 1

STATE OF HAWAII

 

 

 

 

 

 

A BILL FOR AN ACT

 

 

RELATING TO STATE HOLIDAYS.

 

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

 

     SECTION 1.  The legislature finds that 2023 marks the two hundred thirty-fourth anniversary of the first arrival of Asian immigrant workers in the State.  As of July 1, 2022, approximately 37.1 per cent of the State's population, over five hundred thousand residents, was of Asian descent.

     The legislature further finds that the Asian community in Hawaii has contributed greatly not only to the State's social, civic, and economic success, but also to its diverse and vibrant culture, which includes the celebration of the Lunar New Year.  The Lunar New Year is joyously observed by numerous residents in the State and is celebrated by more than two-thirds of Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese Americans in general.  The Lunar New Year provides a time to renew one's family ties, reflect upon the past year, and wish for good fortune, health, and prosperity in the year ahead.

     The legislature finds that, by establishing the Lunar New Year as an observed day in Hawaii, the State can honor its rich cultural history, demonstrate its commitment to cultural diversity, and extend its best wishes for peace and prosperity to all who celebrate this important occasion.

     Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to designate the day of the second new moon after the winter solstice of every year as the Lunar New Year.

     SECTION 2.  Chapter 8, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:

     "§8‑     Lunar New Year.  The day of the second new moon after the winter solstice shall be known and designated as the "Lunar New Year".  Lunar New Year is not and shall not be construed to be a state holiday."

     SECTION 3.  New statutory material is underscored.

     SECTION 4.  This Act shall take effect on July 1, 3000.

 

 

Report Title:

Lunar New Year; Day of Observance

 

Description:

Designates the day of the second new moon after the winter solstice of every year as the Lunar New Year.  Effective date 7/1/3000.  (HD1)

 

 

 

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