Minnesota House approves repeal of Cesar Chavez Day

The Minnesota House voted to pass House File 45-41 on March 18, a bill introduced by Representative Perez-vega to repeal Cesar Chavez Day. The measure advanced after Representative Long moved to suspend the rules and place the bill on final passage, a motion the chamber approved.

Representative Perez-vega, who spoke on behalf of Latino communities, framed the bill as a step toward collective recognition and healing: "Our movements are not one person ... we believe our children," he said, urging members to vote green. Representative Collins said she supported the bill and described a recent near-miss involving her seven-year-old as illustration of the seriousness with which members should treat public-safety and community issues generally while endorsing the repeal.

The clerk recorded 129 ayes and 0 nays on the final action; the bill passed and its title was agreed to. Supporters said the change was nonpartisan and reflected community input; opponents did not record a roll-call opposition during the floor debate. The House moved on to subsequent calendar items after the passage.