California governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday signed a law making Diwali an official state holiday. The AB 268 law will take effect on January 1, 2026 allowing community colleges and public schools to close on Diwali and state employees can take the day off with pay. This move follows Newsom’s 2023 veto of a bill on caste discrimination. The bill recognises that Diwali is also celebrated by Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists, ensuring broader inclusivity. Nearly 20% of the nation’s Indian-American population lives in California. Newsom previously served as Lieutenant Governor and Mayor of San Francisco. He is widely recognized for progressive policies in healthcare, civil rights, education and environmental protection. His record includes landmark reforms in same-sex marriage, gun safety,

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