Governor Mike Dunleavy will sign House Bill 141, known as the Don Young Day Bill, this Saturday, officially establishing every June 9th as Don Young Day in Alaska. Congressman Young served Alaska in the United States House of Representatives for 49 years.
Governor Mike Dunleavy will be joined by members of the Young family, and Representative Craig Johnson
“I think we all know Don Young, we know of his history, and this is a small way of saying ‘Thank you’ for his service,” said Representative Craig Johnson (R – Anchorage) during the bill’s introduction in April.
A press release from the Alaska House Majority also quoted Rep. Johnson expressing the legislation’s celebration of the bill, “This day will be a way for Alaskans to honor Congressman Young’s long record of public service,” Johnson said. “Don Young was a true statesman and a fierce advocate for Alaska. He worked tirelessly to improve the lives of Alaskans and his impact will be felt for generations to come.”
House Bill 141 will dedicate June 9 as Don Young Day by amending the list of legal holidays in Alaska Statute 44.12 to include language, which is “to be observed by suitable observances and exercises.”
“The overwhelming support by the House to pass HB 141 demonstrates the House’s respect for Congressman Young’s legacy and the significant impact he made on the state of Alaska,” said U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan. “By establishing Don Young Day, the people of Alaska will have an annual opportunity to honor and remember the remarkable service of this distinguished public servant”
Governor Dunleavy will sign HB 141 into law this Saturday at 2:00 p.m. at the Alaska State Fair Grounds,