Plain English Breakdown
The official text states schools are authorized to close 'as specified' but does not detail the specific agreement process in this summary; it relies on existing law for those details.
Adding Diwali as an Official California Holiday
AB-268 adds Diwali to the list of state holidays, allows schools and colleges to close on that day with agreements in place, lets some employees take paid time off for it, permits educational events about its meaning, and excludes it from being a judicial holiday.
What This Bill Does
- Adds 'Diwali' to the official list of California state holidays.
- Authorizes community colleges and public schools to close on Diwali as specified by law.
- Allows state employees to choose to take time off with pay for Diwali, while authorizing certain school employees to be given that day off with pay.
- Permits public schools and educational institutions across the state to hold activities acknowledging and celebrating the meaning of Diwali.
- Excludes Diwali from being designated as a judicial holiday.
Who It Names or Affects
- State government employees
- Community college staff, students, and governing boards
- Public school teachers, staff, students, and governing boards
Limits and Unknowns
- The bill does not specify the exact calendar date for Diwali each year.
- School closures depend on specific agreements between governing boards and employee representatives.