COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives on Wednesday passed House Bill 13, legislation to designate Nov. 5 as “Roy Rogers Day” in Ohio, announced bill sponsor, State Rep. Justin Pizzulli, R-Scioto County.

Born on Nov. 5, 1911, Roy Rogers, the “King of Cowboys,” grew up in Portsmouth and went on to have a historic career as an American singer, actor, television host and rodeo performer.

“This legislation seeks to both honor a legend deeply rooted in our state’s history and instill hope in younger Ohioans from rural communities that they too can pursue and achieve their dreams,” Pizzulli said. “By designating Nov. 5 as ‘Roy Rogers Day,’ we ensure that his legacy, and the lessons it offers, live on.”

Portsmouth was home to the Roy Rogers Museum and its annual festival for more than 40 years. 

Rogers is the only country singer to be inducted twice into the Country Music Hall of Fame. He lent his name to the franchise chain of Roy Rogers Restaurants, which has 41 locations in five states.

Rogers died in 1998 at age 86.

House Bill 13 now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.