A new federal holiday is in the works if a bill proposed by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick and Congressman Tom Suozzi becomes reality.
The Patriot Day Act would formally recognize the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
According to a post on Fitzpatrick’s website, the day would be for honoring the lives lost, the heroism displayed, and the national unity and resilience that followed the attacks.
The attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, claimed nearly 3,000 lives, including 18 Bucks Countians.
Fitzpatrick, a Republican, and Suozzi, a Democrat from New York, said the day deserves formal national recognition like Memorial Day and Independence Day.
“September 11th, 2001, was a day of profound tragedy—but also one that revealed the strength of the American people,” said Fitzpatrick. “In our darkest hour, we stood united. The Patriot Day Act is a reaffirmation of our national character, ensuring that the heroism, sacrifice, and unity of that day are never lost to time.”
Suozzi added that the legislation aims to ensure the nation never forgets the pain and anguish of that day, the valor of first responders, and the spirit of unity that emerged.
“Above all, let us rededicate ourselves to upholding the enduring dream and promise of America,” he said.
The Patriot Day Act would amend Title 5 of the United States Code and make Sept. 11 as a permanent federal holiday. It would place the day alongside the 11 current federal holidays, which include New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Washington’s Birthday, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.
Federal holidays typically close most government offices and lead to many businesses closing.
Both Fitzpatrick and Suozzi have experience in the federal workforce. Fitzpatrick is a former FBI special agent, and Suozzi clerked for a federal judge.
The two lawmakers also serve as co-chairs of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus.
Advertisement
Convenient Legal Access to High Quality Cannabis Just A Few Minutes Away!
