Congresswoman Grace Meng introduces legislation to make Lunar New Year a federal holiday

Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-Queens), First Vice Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus, has just announced that she has introduced new legislation that could make Lunar New Year a federal holiday. The bill is known as the “Lunar New Year Day Act.” In 2016, Lunar New Year became a school holiday in New York City, also the result of Meng’s efforts.

“For Asian Americans, Lunar New Year is an incredibly important, festive and deeply traditional holiday,” said Meng. “It’s the most significant time of year for the Asian American community, and is celebrated in the U.S. and across the globe. It has also been observed for thousands of years. With Asian Americans being the fastest growing population in our country, and with the popularity of the holiday continuing to grow, it makes sense to make Lunar New Year a federal holiday. The time has come to make this happen. My bill, coupled with my resolution, would demonstrate that the holiday celebrated by millions is also valued by their government. I look forward to shepherding these measures through the House, and I am excited to wish everyone celebrating a very happy Lunar New Year!”

The bill was introduced with 44 co-sponsors and can be read here.