On Tuesday, the Senate unanimously passed legislation creating a new federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. And on Wednesday, the House passed by a vote of 415-14. If signed by the President, June 19th will be known as Juneteenth National Independence Day.
According to a statement released by Senator John Cornyn’s (R-TX) office:
“On June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3, which announced that, in accordance with the Emancipation Proclamation, “all slaves are free.” Currently, Juneteenth is celebrated by 47 states, including Texas, and the District of Columbia.”
Amid the rise of racial protests, Black Lives Matter, and a Democratic-led Presidential Administration, House, and Senate, it’s not a surprise this legislation was picked up and passed without resistance.
Last year, Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson (R) blocked the effort but, this year he stepped aside. In a statement released on June 15, 2021, Johnson stated:
“Resolutions recognizing the significance of, and celebrating, Juneteenth have unanimously passed with my support in Congress every year I’ve been a U.S. Senator. Last year, a bill was introduced to celebrate Juneteenth by providing an additional paid holiday for 2 million federal employees at a cost of $600 million per year. They attempted to pass the bill without debate or amendment process. Although I strongly support celebrating Emancipation, I objected to the cost and lack of debate. While it still seems strange that having taxpayers provide federal employees paid time off is now required to celebrate the end of slavery, it is clear that there is no appetite in Congress to further discuss the matter. Therefore, I do not intend to object.”
Johnson was correct in his assessment. There was no debate on this legislation or even a consideration of the fiscal impact and the bill passed the Senate, as well as the House. We expect the President to sign the legislation prior to Saturday, June 19th.