1211 (H.J.Res.487 in the house,[1]) a joint resolution authorizing and requesting the President to proclaim 1983 as the "Year of the Bible".
President Reagan was authorized and requested to so designate 1983 by Public Law 97-280 (Senate Joint Resolution 165], 96 Stat.
The law recited that the Bible "has made a unique contribution in shaping the United States as a distinctive and blessed nation and people" and that, quoting President Andrew Jackson, the Bible is "the rock on which our Republic rests".
"Can we resolve to reach, learn and try to heed the greatest message ever written, God's Word, and the Holy Bible?"
[6] The Resolution passed by the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, HR 535, has faced resistance from atheist groups.