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Committee advances bill making second Monday in October both Indigenous Peoples' Day and Columbus Day
Summary
Senate Bill 224, which would designate the second Monday in October as a combined Indigenous Peoples' Day and Columbus Day and rename Washington-Lincoln observance to Presidents Day, drew broad public support and passed House committee concurrence by voice vote.
Sen. Shane Morigeau, sponsor of Senate Bill 224, told the House State Administration Committee the bill offers Montanans flexibility to "celebrate what they prefer on that second Monday in October" and emphasized the proposal is intended to "be inclusive and representative of all Montana." He said the measure would let communities choose how they observe the day while formally recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day alongside Columbus Day.
The committee heard testimony from scores of proponents representing tribal governments, municipal leaders, nonprofit groups, students and private citizens. Speakers urged the committee to approve the bill as a way to recognize indigenous history and to promote education and reconciliation. Keaton Sunchild of Western Native Voice said the group hoped the bill would "keep moving this thing along and get out to the full floor of the house." Alissa Snow, representing the Blackfeet Nation, called the measure "a foundational step" that "will assist in improving state-tribal relations." Several local elected officials, including the mayor of Bozeman, described multiple community celebrations and local efforts to make Indigenous Peoples' Day a meaningful public event.
Sponsor Morigeau told the committee he had carried different versions of the legislation through several sessions and that this iteration was designed to be broadly inclusive. He also said the Senate had amended the bill to change an earlier reference to the Washington-Lincoln holiday to "Presidents Day." "This bill allows Montanans the option to celebrate what they prefer on that second Monday in October," Morigeau said.
After public testimony, Representative Feyend urged the committee to give the bill a do-pass recommendation, citing the bill's focus on inclusivity. During executive action, Vice Chair Bertolio moved that "Senate Bill 224 be concurred in." The motion was approved by voice vote; the chair said, "The ayes have it. So Senate Bill 224 passes." Representatives Soutka and Edwards were recorded as voting "aye" by proxy during the voice vote.
The transcript shows broad and diverse public support during the hearing; the committee's concurrence moves SB 224 to the House floor for further consideration.
