Public Holidays Amendment and Validation Act 2023

What this bill does

This bill changes how the Governor can create new public holidays or move existing holiday dates in Bermuda. It requires Parliament to have oversight over these decisions through a "negative resolution procedure," meaning Parliament can block the Governor's proclamations if they disagree. It also confirms that all previous holiday proclamations made by past Governors were legally valid.

If passed (voted YES)

• Parliament gains the power to review and potentially reject any future Governor's decisions about creating new public holidays or changing holiday dates
• All past Governor proclamations about public holidays are officially confirmed as legal and valid
• The Governor can still make holiday proclamations, but Parliament has 21 sitting days to object and overturn them if desired

If rejected (voted NO)

• The Governor continues to have unchecked power to create new public holidays or change holiday dates without Parliament's oversight
• There remains legal uncertainty about whether some past holiday proclamations were properly made
• Parliament has no formal role in reviewing the Governor's holiday-related decisions

Who it affects

This affects all people living and working in Bermuda, as public holidays impact work schedules, school calendars, and daily life. It particularly impacts Parliament members who gain new oversight responsibilities over holiday decisions.