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Committee concurs on SB224 to pair Indigenous Peoples’ Day with Columbus Day
Summary
The committee voted to concur on SB224, creating a combined state holiday on the second Monday of October to allow communities to choose whether to observe Indigenous Peoples' Day or Columbus Day; testimony included broad support from tribal leaders, organizations and students.
The House State Administration committee voted to concur on Senate Bill 224 after an extensive public hearing that drew tribal leaders, municipal officials, nonprofit groups and students.
Senator Shane Morigeau described SB224 as a way for Montanans to choose how to observe the second Monday in October, encouraging communities to celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Day alongside Columbus Day. Dozens of proponents, including tribal representatives and organizations (Western Native Voice, Montana Electric Cooperatives Association, ACLU of Montana, Montana Conservation Voters, Montana Audubon and others), described the bill as a step toward reconciliation and a platform for education.
Testimony from students traveling from Arlee High School and remarks from the mayor of Bozeman underscored local engagement. Supporters said the combined holiday encourages community celebrations and educational programs without erasing history. After public testimony, the committee took executive action: a motion to concur passed by voice vote, with Representative Schubert recorded as a 'no' and representatives Souctiss and Edwards recorded as aye by proxy. The chair declared "the ayes have it" and the committee agreed to send SB224 to the House floor.
The committee record shows broad cross‑sector support, including conservation groups, municipal leadership, educators and tribal organizations; the transcript records the committee's concurrence but does not show the full House floor debate or final enactment in this excerpt.
