Maryland's Senate has approved a bill establishing Jewish and Muslim heritage months, while rejecting an amendment to add a Christian heritage month. The bill, House Bill 661, requires the governor to declare these months annually and would encourage certain organizations to observe these months with certain programs and activities related to the heritage of both religions. The amendment was rejected by the Maryland General Assembly. If passed, January will officially establish Muslim American Heritage Month and May will be Jewish American Heritage month in the official state calendar. However, 58% of Maryland's 6 million residents identify as Christians. The proposed heritage months would be the first examples to include a religious aspect.