California has added Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha to its official list of state holidays, marking a notable change for the state’s Muslim community.
Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2017, formally adding both Islamic festivals to California’s state holiday calendar. The legislation was introduced by Assemblymember Matt Haney and passed by both chambers before receiving the governor’s signature.
The move gives Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha formal recognition under California state law. It also brings the two major Islamic festivals into the state’s existing framework for recognised holidays.
California Adds Two Islamic Festivals to State Holidays
Under AB 2017, Eid-ul-Fitr is recognised according to the first day of Shawwal in the Islamic lunar calendar. Eid-ul-Azha falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah.
The law adds both observances to California’s list of state holidays. However, it specifically excludes Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha from designation as judicial holidays.
The legislation also allows community colleges and public schools to close for the two Eid holidays under specified arrangements. In addition, students may receive an excused absence for observing either festival.
Bill Introduced by Assemblymember Matt Haney
Assemblymember Matt Haney introduced AB 2017 earlier this year. The legislation sought to formally recognise the two major Islamic festivals within California’s state holiday framework.
Haney supported the measure by highlighting California’s large and diverse Muslim population. He said the community’s traditions deserve recognition and respect.
The bill subsequently moved through the state legislative process before reaching the governor.
Governor Newsom’s September 27 legislative update confirms that he signed AB 2017, titled “State holidays: Eid.”
What Eid Recognition Means Under the New Law
The legislation does more than simply add the two festivals to a calendar. It makes changes across several areas of California law to accommodate the new state holidays.
For example, public schools and community colleges may close on Eid under specified agreements. Students can also have absences excused when observing Eid-ul-Fitr or Eid-ul-Azha.
State employees are likewise given provisions allowing them to use certain leave or holiday credits in connection with the two observances.
At the same time, the law does not designate Eid as a judicial holiday. Therefore, the recognition does not mean California courts automatically close on the two dates.
A New Recognition for California’s Muslim Community
The California chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations welcomed the legislation.
The new law formally recognises two of the most important Islamic festivals within California’s state holiday framework. As a result, Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha now have a defined place in state law.
The change follows the passage of AB 2017 and Governor Newsom’s approval of the legislation. It represents a formal recognition of Islamic holidays within California’s existing system of state observances.
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