WASHINGTON — On Tuesday, U.S. Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) released the following statement on making Juneteenth a federal holiday.

“Resolutions recognizing the significance of, and celebrating, Juneteenth have unanimously passed with my support in Congress every year I’ve been a U.S. Senator. Last year, a bill was introduced to celebrate Juneteenth by providing an additional paid holiday for 2 million federal employees at a cost of $600 million per year.   They attempted to pass the bill without debate or amendment process.  Although I strongly support celebrating Emancipation, I objected to the cost and lack of debate.   While it still seems strange that having taxpayers provide federal employees paid time off is now required to celebrate the end of slavery, it is clear that there is no appetite in Congress to further discuss the matter. Therefore, I do not intend to object.”

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