Illinois Governor Signs Bill to Make August 4 “Barack Obama Day”

Last week, Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner signed a new measure into law to honor former President Barack Obama for his dedication to the state, where he began his political career.

Earlier this year, Senate Bill 55 was passed by both the Senate and the House without a single vote against it. On Friday, Rauner signed the bill into law to designate August 4th “Barack Obama Day,” a commemorative state holiday. The holiday will be celebrated on Obama’s birthday, beginning next year.

The bill states the holiday will be “observed throughout the State as a day set apart to honor the 44th President of the United States of America who began his career serving the people of Illinois in both Illinois State Senate and the United States Senate, and dedicated his life to protect the rights of Americans and building bridges across communities.”