Pakistan, Sept. 29 -- California has formally recognised Eidul Fitr and Eidul Azha as Islamic holidays after Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 2017 into law. The measure allows state workers to use existing paid leave to observe the two religious occasions. The law was formally recognised on September 10.

Assembly member Matt Haney introduced the bill in March with support from Muslim communities and organisations. The legislation provides schools and public workplaces with additional options to accommodate Muslim employees and students. It aims to reduce conflicts between religious observance and work or academic responsibilities.

Under the new law, state and school employees can observe Eid by using existing personal holiday credits or ...