California lawmakers passed Senate Bill 931 to officially declare September 25 as Dolly Parton Day.
Following the titular country-music legend’s passing on Aug. 25, state legislators rushed to approve SB 931 on Tuesday after it was first introduced to the Senate floor on Jan. 29.
Sept. 25 stood out as the perfect day to celebrate Parton, whose hit song “Nine to Five” spoke to millions.
The legendary singer-songwriter gave millions of children in California access to books through her Imagination Library Program. California was the first state to offer a “fully bilingual English-Spanish” selection, according to the bill’s text.
“Dolly Parton has a remarkable ability to bring people together, and her heart for children and literacy is one of the greatest parts of her legacy,” said Sen. Grove, R-Bakersfield, in a statement Tuesday. Sen. Grove introduced the bill alongside Sen. John Laird, D-Santa Cruz.
The bill is a love letter of sorts to Dolly, with amendments added after her death to celebrate her dual legacy as a musician and philanthropist.
“Dolly Parton lived a life of strong personal faith and displayed her beliefs through love, forgiveness, and compassion for others,” read one of the two amendments added Sunday. “She approached life with optimism, responsibility, and a humbleness that inspired millions of people.”
The state recognition of Dolly Parton Day could be building into a countrywide phenomenon, much like the music icon herself.
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Jan. 19 was already established as Dolly Parton Day in Tennessee, and Pennsylvania State Rep. Ben Waxman, D-Philadelphia, issued a memorandum Thursday promising he plans to introduce legislation for his state recognizing Dolly Parton Day on Sept. 25.
The bill now heads to California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who is expected to sign the bill.
