Legislation has been introduced which would amend the Arts and Cultural Affairs Law to change New York State History Month from November to October according to an announcement made by the Office of State History.
The move comes on the heels of a revival of sorts for New York’s History Month, which suffered from years of being ignored. November was designed New York State History Month in 1997 by the State Legislature.
“In recent years, the New York State Museum and New York State Historian have worked with historical organizations, museums, and sites to better utilize History Month to promote programs, exhibits, and activities across the State as History Month programs,” an announcement from the Office of State History said.
“Unfortunately, many historical sites close after the Columbus Day weekend and are unable to participate in November promotions. As a result, Senator Marcellino and Assemblywoman Nolan have introduced legislation to change History Month from November to October to better allow organizations to take part in promotions, including the October Path Through History weekend.”
The bill to change history month to October (Assembly Bill A9560 / Senate Bill 7385) was introduced by Assemblywoman Catherine Nolan (D-Long Island City), Chair of the Assembly Education Committee and Senator Carl L. Marcellino (R-Oyster Bay), Chair of the NYS Senate’s Education Committee.
Perhaps a change would encourage some sites to remain open through Halloween to take advantage of fall foliage tourism.