McHenry Times

It looks like Illinois is going to give former President Barack Obama a birthday gift after all.

After rejecting an earlier bill that would have made August 4 an official state holiday, the General Assembly has approved Senate Bill 55, which marks the day without requiring the closing of state facilities and schools.

“SB 55 does one simple thing: t honors and commemorates August 4 for the president of the United States from Illinois,” Rep. Marcus Evans Jr. (D-Chicago) said. 

Now-former President Barack Obama during his farewell address in Chicago

The earlier bill would have cost the state approximately $20 million in personnel costs and lost productivity, according to the Illinois Policy Institute.  

“I just want to verify, there was a bill like this that required state employees to have the day off, and it had a significant financial impact," Rep. Steve Andersson (R-Geneva) said. "Does this bill similarly do that, or is this just an honorary day?”

Evans assured his colleague that this “Obama Day” bill was not like the last, which was rejected by the House in a 54-51-1 vote.

“Particularly in this climate now when we’re working out our fiscal issues, I didn’t think that bill was appropriate," Evans said. "This is all about honoring our president."

Andersson said he could support a measure making the day an honorary one.

“He’s the first African-American president," he said. "He deserves this honor. I fully support it. Thank you for bringing it."

Evans was glad to see the bill receive the House's full support.

“Mr. Obama served this country well, and I really believe personally that we should give folks their flowers while they are still alive," he said. “Honoring our president while he can experience it and feel it and show the love, I think it’s needed.”

SB 55 is awaiting Gov. Bruce Rauner’s signature after passing the House 87-0.