The Illinois House narrowly voted down a proposal to make former President Barack Obama’s birthday an official state holiday. The bill would have designated August 4th as an official state holiday to honor the 44th President. While many agree Obama should be recognized, some like State Representative Steve Anderson, question whether it should be a day off of work and school. He says closing state offices would cost the state millions of dollars.
The measure fell just six votes short of passage and could be considered again.