California declares Diwali a State holiday

California has officially recognised the Diwali festival as a state holiday. It has now become the third state in the United States of America, after Pennsylvania and Connecticut, which declare Diwali as a state holiday. Governor of California Gavin Newsom signed the bill introduced by Assembly member Ash Kalra, granting paid time off to state employees and allowing schools to observe the festival. Community leaders hailed the move as a milestone that honours the contributions of Indian Americans to the state’s economy, government, and society. The move was hailed by several Hindu advocacy groups and community.

Governor Newsom has now signed #AB268 into law-meaning #Diwali is added to the list of state holidays!

We thank @CAgovernor for recognizing this important festival and ushering in a new era of inclusion for Hindus in California. Huge shout out to Assembly Members Darshana… pic.twitter.com/qPJfi1vjm7

— CoHNA (Coalition of Hindus of North America) (@CoHNAOfficial) October 7, 2025

The law allows public schools and community colleges to close on Diwali and permits state employees to take the day off with pay. The legislation, co-authored by Assembly Members Darshana Patel and Ash Kalra, recognises Diwali as a festival celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists.Because AB 268 was signed during a regular legislative session, in the absence of a special effective date, it will likely take effect on January 1, 2026 under California’s default rules for new statutes.