As the president prepares to visit the state capitol and speak to lawmakers, some in Illinois are wanting to designate a holiday in his honor.
Legislation filed would make August4th, Obama's birthday, a state holiday. That would mean closing schools and state government offices that day. The proposal comes as Obama plans to return to the Illinois statehouse Wednesday for a speech. He's expected to focus on getting those with different views to work together.
RepresentativeThaddeusJones, a Democrat from Calumet City and co-sponsor of the bill, said he thinks Obama's birthday should be a day devoted to helping others.Listen to the story
"It's going out helping feed the homeless or it's collecting canned goods," he said. "You know, one of the things the president started off as was a community activist and a community service person."
If the measure becomes law, the first celebration could take place this summer. It would be the14thholiday Illinois recognizes.
Copyright 2016 NPR Illinois | 91.9 UIS
