Illinois Dems Move to Make Obama's Birthday a State Holiday

Illinois Dems Look to Make Obama’s Birthday a State Holiday

Illinois State Rep. Andre Thapedi introduced a new bill this week that could make President Barack Obama’s birthday a state holiday.

The proposed legislation, House Bill 4654, would close schools and state offices on Aug. 4, Obama’s birthday. If the date falls on a Sunday, the following Monday will be observed instead.

The bill is co-sponsored by representatives Thaddeus Jones, Rita Mayfield and Arthur Turner.

"As President Obama serves his final year in office, the timing to make his birthday a state holiday is critical to recognizing his accomplishment and the legacy that he will leave behind for future presidents, Illinois officials and young people who aspire to serve their community," Jones said in a statement.

Before becoming a U.S. Senator and subsequently the country’s Commander-In-Chief, Obama served as an Illinois senator from 1997-2004.

The president will address the state’s General Assembly next week in Springfield amid the state’s historic budget impasse and pension crisis.

Obama became the first black president in the nation’s history when he was sworn into office in January of 2009.
 
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