California Designates Native American Day as Paid State Holiday
Taxpayers could face annual costs of up to $20 million due to the addition of the 12th paid holiday for state workers.
California has officially recognized Native American Day as its 12th paid holiday for state employees, a move that could cost taxpayers between $16 million and $20 million annually. Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1841 into law this week, establishing the fourth Friday of September as a paid day off for state workers.
This addition brings California's total number of paid state holidays to 12, surpassing those of other populous states like Florida (nine holidays), New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania (each with 11 holidays). Only Texas and Illinois offer more paid state holidays.
The legislation is part of a broader initiative by the state to address its historical relationship with Native American tribes. Newsom also signed measures to formalize a state apology and permanently establish the Governor’s Office of Tribal Affairs. He stated that these actions acknowledge "great remorse over the violent beginnings of this state."
California first designated Native American Day in 1998 with the aim of correcting misconceptions about California Indians and improving the understanding of Native American societies in historical education.
However, the financial implications of the new paid holiday have drawn scrutiny, particularly as the state faces existing fiscal pressures. Critics question the prioritization of an additional paid day off for government employees, arguing that the state should focus on practical policy rather than symbolic gestures related to historical grievances. Assemblymember James Ramos, D-San Bernardino, authored the bill, which was signed alongside other legislation concerning California tribes.