DeWine: Most state offices to close for Juneteenth

In a statement reacting to President Joe Biden signing the bill marking Juneteenth as a federal holiday, Gov. Mike DeWine says most state offices will be closed on Friday to observe the day.

DeWine acknowledged the significance of Juneteenth as the “oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.”

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“Pursuant to [Ohio Revised Code §124.19], I also appoint and recommend Juneteenth, June 19th, as a state holiday. I also support legislative efforts to commemorate Juneteenth in the Ohio Revised Code,” DeWine said in a statement.

Juneteenth falls on a Saturday this year, so most state offices and most state employees, with the exception of hospitals and public safety, will observe the holiday Friday, June 18.

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