California lawmakers propose recognizing Eid holidays

Lawmakers in California have introduced a bill that would recognize the Muslim holidays Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha as official state-recognized holidays, according to legislation announced in the state legislature.

The proposal, introduced by Assembly member Matt Haney, would allow public schools and community colleges to close in observance of the holidays and would add the dates to the list of excused absences for students. State employees would also be allowed to use eight hours of existing leave to observe the celebrations. Courts would remain open because the holidays would not be designated as judicial holidays.

Haney said the measure is intended to ensure Muslim residents can observe important religious events without academic or workplace penalties. In a video announcement, he said recognizing the holidays would show that California values inclusion and diversity and supports Muslim communities across the state.

Bilal Mahmood, the first Muslim American supervisor in San Francisco, welcomed the proposal, saying it would allow Muslim families to see their traditions and beliefs formally recognized. If passed, California would become the second U.S. state after Washington to officially recognize the Eid holidays.