As the United States approaches the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, some lawmakers are continuing a bipartisan push to make September 11 a federal holiday, arguing that the day should be permanently set aside for national reflection, remembrance, and service. The effort centers on the Patriot Day Act (H.R. 911), introduced in the House on February 4, 2025, by Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick, a Pennsylvania Republican, and Rep.
Tom Suozzi, a New York Democrat. According to the bill text, the legislation seeks to amend federal law and add "Patriot Day" to the list of federal holidays. September 11 is already recognized nationwide as “Patriot Day” under federal law and is also observed as a National Day of Service and Remembrance.
Americans are encouraged to honor the nearly 3,000 people killed in the attacks through memorial ceremonies, moments of silence, and volunteer service. However, Patriot Day is not currently a federal holiday. Unlike Memorial Day, Veterans Day, Independence Day, or Labor Day, federal employees are not automatically granted a paid day off, and federal offices remain open.
The proposed legislation would place September 11 alongside those federally observed holidays. If enacted, federal government offices would generally close, federal employees would receive holiday leave, and banks, schools, and private employers would decide independently whether to follow the federal holiday designation, as often occurs with other federal holidays. Federal holidays do not automatically require private businesses or schools to close.
Despite bipartisan sponsorship, the Patriot Day Act has not advanced beyond its initial stage in Congress. H.R. 911 was referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform on February 4, 2025, the same day it was introduced. The bill remains in the "Introduced" stage and hasn’t yet received a committee vote, House floor vote, or Senate consideration.
While there has been no formal congressional movement this year, supporters have continued to advocate for the measure. On the 24th anniversary of the attacks in September 2025, Fitzpatrick renewed his call for Congress to pass the bill, describing it as a way to ensure future generations "Never Forget." In a statement, he said the proposal would create a permanent day of remembrance, reflection, and service: “September 11th was not only a day of loss; it was a defining test of who we are as a nation. Nearly 3,000 innocent lives were taken, yet America answered with unity and service.
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