H.R.3046 - Workers’ Memorial Day (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3046, the Workers' Memorial Day Act, proposes amending Title 5 of the United States Code to establish Workers' Memorial Day as a federal holiday. This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on April 28, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. The bill aims to formally recognize and honor workers who have been injured or killed on the job.
The proposed amendment would insert "Workers' Memorial Day" into the list of federal holidays recognized in Section 6103(a) of Title 5. This would grant federal employees a paid day off and potentially raise awareness about workplace safety.
The bill's short title is simply "Workers' Memorial Day".
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.3046 would add Workers' Memorial Day to the list of federal holidays. This would result in federal employees receiving a paid day off on that day.
It could also lead to increased public awareness and discussion regarding workplace safety and workers' rights. The practical effect beyond federal employees is likely to be limited unless states and private companies follow suit.
Potential Benefits
- Formal Recognition: Acknowledges the sacrifices of workers injured or killed on the job.
- Increased Awareness: Raises public awareness of workplace safety issues.
- Symbolic Support: Demonstrates government support for worker rights and safety.
- Potential for Improved Conditions: May encourage employers to improve workplace safety standards.
- Day of Remembrance: Provides a dedicated day for families and communities to remember and honor fallen workers.
Potential Disadvantages
- Economic Impact: Potential costs associated with a federal holiday (e.g., lost productivity).
- Limited Scope: Primarily benefits federal employees; impact on private sector workers is indirect.
- Potential for Tokenism: Risk that the holiday becomes a symbolic gesture without meaningful action to improve worker safety.
- Government Overreach: Some may view it as an unnecessary expansion of federal holidays.
- Administrative Burden: Requires adjustments to federal holiday schedules and related processes.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The establishment of a federal holiday appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution's preamble, which aims to "promote the general Welfare." Congress's power to designate holidays falls under its implied powers to regulate the federal workforce and promote national values. There are no explicit constitutional restrictions on establishing federal holidays.
However, some might argue that such a law should be carefully considered to ensure it does not unduly burden interstate commerce or infringe upon states' rights. The bill does not appear to violate any specific constitutional provision.
It is important to note that the Constitution does not explicitly mention federal holidays, so the power to create them is generally understood as an implied power necessary and proper for carrying out the government's enumerated powers.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).