New York State Recognizes Juneteenth as a Paid Holiday

Governor Kathy Hochul Issues Official Proclamation

State Employees and CSEA Members to Benefit

WEB Governor Kathy Hochul issued a proclamation today in observance of Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day. The proclamation recognizes the significance of Juneteenth as a day to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. The Governor also announced that Juneteenth will now be a paid state holiday for state employees.

Under the official state law, Juneteenth is now a paid state holiday for state employees. This includes CSEA members employed by the State Executive. In Hawaii and North Dakota, Juneteenth has been a day of observance since 2022 but is not considered a state holiday.

Juneteenth is catching on as a day of recognition and celebration across the United States. In 2021, President Biden signed legislation making Juneteenth a federal holiday. The Empire State has a tradition of acknowledging significant milestones in advancing the cause of freedom, and New Yorkers join in celebrating the 156th anniversary of Juneteenth.