Question

Our employees have questioned our policy to remain open on Columbus/Indigenous Peoples Day and Veterans Day. Are there any legal restrictions on staying open on these holidays?

Answer

Massachusetts still maintains rules regarding holiday openings – rules requiring employees to work and rules about obtaining state and/or local permission to open. There are rules about opening on Sundays and holidays, which are available here.  Columbus Day and Veterans Day are partially restricted holidays, with specific rules for retailers and manufacturers.

Retail and manufacturing businesses may not open on Columbus Day before noon and Veterans Day before 1 pm without a permit from the local police department.  These permits tend to be granted routinely, providing a streamlined process for compliance. Note that there is a voluntariness work requirement – if an employee insists on observing these holidays, then you must allow it.

AIM will release a 2025 calendar in the coming months with additional information about holiday openings, so be sure to keep an eye out and save it for future reference.

AIM members with questions about holiday openings or any other HR matter may call the AIM HR Helpline at 800-470-6277 or via email at helpline@AIMnet.org.