A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT designating the last monday in september of each year as blue and gold star mothers' appreciation day.
Whereas, a Blue Star Mother has a child who is currently serving in the military or has served in the past; and
Whereas, a Gold Star Mother or a Gold Star Family member has a son, daughter, spouse, father, or mother that has been killed during any war of conflict, died from sustained injuries, or committed suicide while on active duty; and
Whereas, on June 23, 1936, Congress, by joint resolution, designated the last Sunday in September as Gold Star Mothers' Day, to be observed each year by Presidential Proclamation. Despite this joint resolution, not much has been done to encourage observation of this day; and
Whereas, currently there are only several states that recognize Gold Star Mothers' Day; and
Whereas, North Carolina prides itself as being the nation's "Most Military‑Friendly State"; and
Whereas, it is important to support the families of the members of the military; and
Whereas, it is fitting to designate the last Monday in September of each year as Blue and Gold Star Mothers' Appreciation Day in North Carolina; Now, therefore,
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
SECTION 1.  Chapter 103 of the General Statutes is amended by adding a new section to read:
"§ 103‑15.  Blue and Gold Star Mothers' Appreciation Day.
The last Monday in September of each year is designated as Blue and Gold Star Mothers' Appreciation Day in North Carolina."
SECTION 2.  This act is effective when it becomes law.