Oct. 1 Papal Visit Might Be Holiday

BOSTON--The Massachusetts legislature may approve a full holiday for the visit of Pope John Paul II on October 1, but without any special overtime pay provisions.

The compromise bill, tentatively scheduled for floor vote tomorrow, would not require employers to pay overtime rates to workers. Employees could not, however, be penalized for taking the day off.

The original bill would have required premium pay for anyone required to work on the special holiday.

Should the measure pass as expected, all state, county, and municipal offices would be closed on the day of the visit.

In contrast to the present legislation, Gov. Edward J. King's original proposal recommended only a half-holiday, but with the blue laws suspended. Businesses would have had the option of opening or closing.