California court strikes down Diwali holiday law

A California court struck down parts of the state’s Diwali holiday law, focusing on the legislation’s description of Diwali’s religious significance.

California formally recognized Diwali as a state holiday in October 2025 under Governor Gavin Newsom via legislation by Assembly member Ash Kalra.

The law allowed eligible state employees to use paid leave and public schools to optionally close for Diwali, but was not a mandatory paid public holiday.

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) said the ruling challenges the law’s wording, not its practical purpose of enabling observance without conflict with responsibilities.

California is the third US state to officially recognize Diwali, after Pennsylvania and Connecticut.