HB 12-1040 Summary

• September 11 is designated as "Patriot Day" and recognized annually in Colorado, with appropriate observance permitted in public schools and by the public.

• Patriot Day becomes a legal holiday on September 11 in years divisible by 10 beginning in 2021 (2021, 2031, 2041, etc.) and years divisible by 25 beginning in 2026 (2026, 2051, 2076, etc.).

• In all other years, state agencies may allow employees to substitute Patriot Day for another legal holiday, but agencies must remain open on September 11.

• The bill honors victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and recognizes the service and sacrifice of armed forces, first responders, and their families since that date.

• The act takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the 2012 legislative session (August 7, 2012) unless subject to a referendum petition requiring voter approval at the November 2012 general election.