Workers’ Memorial Day
- Sponsor
- Rep. Norcross, Donald [D-NJ-1]
- Committees
- Oversight and Government Reform Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 28, 2025
Bottom line
H.R. 3046 seeks to establish Workers' Memorial Day as the twelfth Federal holiday, providing a national day of remembrance for workers affected by workplace incidents.
What it actually does
This bill proposes to amend title 5, United States Code, to designate Workers' Memorial Day as a new Federal holiday. By adding it to the list of legal public holidays, the bill would ensure that federal employees receive a paid day off and federal offices are closed on this day, honoring workers who have died, been injured, or fallen ill due to work-related incidents.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that establishing Workers' Memorial Day as a Federal holiday would appropriately honor the sacrifices of workers who have died or been injured on the job, raising public awareness about workplace safety and health. They contend it would provide a dedicated day for reflection and remembrance, reinforcing the nation's commitment to protecting its workforce and promoting safer working conditions.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that adding another Federal holiday would result in significant economic costs due to lost productivity from federal employee closures and increased federal payroll expenses for the holiday. They may also contend that existing observances or safety regulations are sufficient and a new holiday is an unnecessary burden on taxpayers and the economy, potentially disrupting federal services.
The bill text is extremely short and can be read in under a minute, making it highly accessible for immediate understanding of its core purpose.
Section 2, page 1
Establishment of Workers' Memorial Day as a Federal Holiday
This provision amends section 6103(a) of title 5, United States Code, which enumerates the legal public holidays observed by the United States government. By inserting 'Workers' Memorial Day' into this list, the bill formally designates it as a Federal holiday. This action would result in federal government offices closing and federal employees receiving a paid day off on this newly established holiday.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision provides a fitting and overdue tribute to workers who have suffered work-related fatalities, injuries, or illnesses, elevating the importance of workplace safety and health. They believe it offers a national moment of remembrance and solidarity for working families, reinforcing the nation's commitment to protecting its workforce.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that this provision introduces an additional cost to the federal budget through increased payroll expenses for holiday pay and lost productivity from federal office closures. They may also question the necessity of a new federal holiday given existing observances and the potential for disruption to government services.
Tradeoffs
The provision navigates the tradeoff between the symbolic value of honoring workers and promoting workplace safety, and the tangible economic costs associated with an additional federal holiday, including federal payroll expenses and potential disruptions to government services and economic activity.