The Nation - News from April 15, 1988

An Arizona Senate committee approved legislation to create a paid state holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., with proponents saying it was time to end a divisive controversy started by ex-Gov. Evan Mecham. The Senate Government Committee voted 5 to 4 in favor of the measure, which would designate the third Monday in January as Martin Luther King Jr.-Civil Rights Day. Mecham, one week after taking office in January 1987, abolished Arizona’s paid state holiday honoring the slain civil rights leader. The conservative Republican contended the holiday was created illegally by his predecessor, Democrat Bruce Babbitt. Mecham also later said he did not believe Dr. King was worthy of a holiday. Mecham was removed as governor April 4 for misuse of state funds and obstructing justice.