Pennsylvania Act 2024-112 — ANNUAL DESIGNATION AND HOLIDAY OBSERVANCE OF THE FIFTEENTH DAY OF THE HINDU LUNISOLAR MONTH OF KARTIK AS "DIWALI DAY" IN THIS COMMONWEALTH

Act text

An Act

Providing for the annual designation and holiday observance of the fifteenth day of the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartik as "Diwali Day" in this Commonwealth.

The General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania hereby enacts as follows:

Section 1. Legislative findings.

The General Assembly hereby finds and declares as follows:

(1) Known as the "Festival of Lights," approximately 1,000,000,000 people around the world celebrate Diwali as a day of thanksgiving and reflection.

(2) Though it originates from Indian culture and religion, millions of Americans celebrate Diwali each year.

(3) The festival lasts five days, with the third day marking the day celebrated as "Diwali."

(4) Diwali falls on the 15th day of the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartik, which aligns with the new moon day of the first month of the lunar year.

(5) Diwali's celebration of light, reflection and gathering is celebrated by many Pennsylvanians and the festival deserves official recognition.

Section 2. Designation.

In accordance with the official day recognized by the Indian government, the 15th day of the Hindu lunisolar month of Kartik shall be designated "Diwali Day" in this Commonwealth.

Section 3. Construction.

Nothing in this act shall be construed as requiring an employer to treat "Diwali Day" as a legal or official holiday or to provide paid leave to an employee on "Diwali Day" solely by virtue of the date being designated under this act.

Section 4. Effective date.

This act shall take effect immediately.