In the near future, I plan to introduce the Family Day Act, amending Title 38 (Holidays and Observances) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to designate the fourth Friday in November as “Family Day.”

Purpose
The purpose of this legislation is to recognize the family as the cornerstone of the Commonwealth’s moral and civic life and to encourage Pennsylvanians to devote time to strengthening family relationships.


Background
Across the United States, several states—including Arizona, Minnesota, Tennessee, Nevada, and Kansas—have enacted or proclaimed similar observances recognizing the day following Thanksgiving as Family Day. These measures highlight the essential relationship between strong families and strong communities. Pennsylvania should join in affirming this principle through a formal statutory observance.

Summary

This legislation will:

1. Designate the fourth Friday in November of each year as “Family Day.”
2. Authorize the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging activities that strengthen family bonds—such as shared meals, service, worship, and recreation.
3. Invite schools, faith-based organizations, and community institutions to promote family unity.
4. Clarify that Family Day is a voluntary observance and does not constitute a paid legal holiday or require closures.

I invite you join me in co-sponsoring the “Family Day Act’ and help reaffirm the Commonwealth’s commitment to the family unit.

For further information, please contact Don Beishl, Chief of Staff, at dbeishl@pasen.gov, or Aaron Bashir, Legislative Director, at abashir@pasen.gov