OLYMPIA, Wash. – Washington Governor Jay Inslee signed off on a bill on Wed., March 13 to recognize the Lunar New Year as a holiday in Washington.
House Bill 2209 passed the House on Jan. 31 with a vote of 96-1 and later unanimously passed the Senate on Feb. 28 with a vote of 49-0.
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“This is a momentous occasion for inclusivity and understanding,” said the bill’s sponsor Rep. My-Linh Thai of Bellevue. “Lunar New Year is a time of joy, family reunions, and traditions shared by billions worldwide. Recognizing this day sends a clear signal to future generations that their heritage is respected and celebrated.”
The bill encourages state governmental entities, local governments, schools, institutions and cultural organizations to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
Gov. Inslee was joined at the signing by members of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities.
HB 2209’s passage builds upon previous efforts to celebrate Lunar New Year, including House Resolution 4604 and House Resolution 4660.
