California has introduced another paid day off for state employees, and this could cost taxpayers up to $20 million annually.
This week, Governor Gavin Newsom approved Assembly Bill 1841, establishing Native American Day as the 12th paid holiday for state workers in California.
The state’s analysis estimates the yearly expense at around $16 million to $20 million, factoring in payroll costs and productivity losses.
With this addition, California now surpasses states like Florida, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania in the number of paid holidays for state workers. Florida has nine paid holidays, while the others have 11. Only Texas and Illinois have more holidays among the largest states in the U.S.
Essentially, California is granting its state employees additional paid holidays compared to most major states, which raises questions about the financial implications for taxpayers.
This new day off is also part of a larger initiative to confront California’s historical treatment of Native American tribes. Governor Newsom has also enacted legislation that formally apologizes on behalf of the state and secures the permanence of the Governor’s Office of Tribal Affairs.
In his remarks, Newsom highlighted the complex history between California and Native American tribes, expressing deep regret over the state’s violent beginnings.
California first recognized the fourth Friday of September as Native American Day back in 1998. This designation aimed to correct misunderstandings about California’s Indigenous peoples and address the incomplete portrayal of Native American societies in the state’s educational curriculum.
However, the financial burden is a pressing current issue. Amid ongoing fiscal challenges and liabilities, critics are questioning whether adding another paid holiday is the right move. Some have pushed back against the broader initiative, arguing that the focus should shift towards practical policies rather than dwelling on historical grievances and symbolic gestures.
The legislation was introduced by Assemblymember James Ramos from San Bernardino and was signed by Newsom, coinciding with other laws affecting California’s Native tribes.
