HF 2063

as introduced - 94th Legislature (2025 - 2026) Posted on 03/10/2025 02:44pm

A bill for an act
relating to state government; establishing an annual observance for 1st Minnesota
Day; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 10.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1.

new text begin [10.501] 1ST MINNESOTA DAY.
new text end

new text begin (a) July 2 of each year is designated 1st Minnesota Day for the purpose of honoring the
262 men of the 1st Minnesota Regiment who fought for the Union on July 2, 1863,
responding to General Winfield S. Hancock's order to plug a gap in the Union line by
charging at the double-quick with fixed bayonets. In the few minutes of the charge, 215
men were killed. The charge allowed other units to reach and close the gap. The battle and
the sacrifice of these men was an important contribution in saving the Union.
new text end

new text begin (b) Each year the governor shall issue a proclamation honoring this observance.
new text end

new text begin (c) Schools are encouraged to offer instruction on the role of the 1st Minnesota Regiment
during the Civil War, including but not limited to sharing the stories of those who fought
to save the Union for freedom and democracy against secession.
new text end

new text begin (d) On July 2 of each year, the commissioner of administration, in cooperation with the
Minnesota Historical Society, must fly the Minnesota Historical Society's replica of the 1st
Minnesota Regimental flag on the North flag pole of the Minnesota State Capitol in place
of the POW/MIA flag.
new text end

new text begin EFFECTIVE DATE. new text end

new text begin This section is effective the day following final enactment.
new text end