It has been almost a year since former President Barack Obama left office, and though he no longer lives in the White House, Mr. Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, are still making phenomenal contributions to society, especially in their home state of Illinois.

In part due to these efforts, NBC Chicago reports that Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner signed a law making the 44th president's birthday a holiday in the state.

The holiday is called Barack Obama Day, and will be recognized every August 4 as of 2018.

According to the bill, Barack Obama Day will be “observed throughout the State as a day set apart to honor the 44th President of the United States of America who began his career serving the People of Illinois in both the Illinois State Senate and the United States Senate, and dedicated his life to protecting the rights of Americans and building bridges across communities."

The fact that the bill passed in both houses unanimously proves that Mr. Obama is still a favorite.

That is not to say, however, that the bill was passed without any setbacks.

Republicans, in particular, had issues with Obama receiving a holiday due to the potential costs of shutting down banks and businesses during the day.

Critics also prolonged the bill's process by stating that it would be unfair to other Illinois presidents such as Ronald Reagan, who don't have legal holidays where all establishments are closed.

To get the bill into law, Democrats settled for a commemorative day for Obama where only schools and government buildings would close.

"It's incredibly proud for Illinois that the president came from Illinois. I think it's awesome, and I think we should celebrate it," Rauner told reporters in February. "I don't think it should be a formal holiday with paid, forced time off, but I think it should be a day of acknowledgment and celebration."

Congratulations Barack!