Proposals that would recognize Lunar New Year and Diwali as formal holidays in New York are taking a step closer to passage.
State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie on Wednesday announced his chamber plans to pass legislation making both holidays in New York by June 8, when lawmakers conclude the legislative session.
The move is expected to include input from school and education officials for how this could impact the school calendar.
"It is important to recognize New York’s rich and diverse culture. Therefore, it is the intention of the Assembly pass legislation to observe Lunar New Year and Diwali as holidays in New York State before the close of our legislative session," Heastie said. "We will continue discussions with stakeholders as to how this affects the school year calendar."
Making both holidays officially recognized in New York has been a years-long push in the state.
In the state Senate, lawmakers there approved a measure this year that would allow students at the State University of New York and City University of New York public college and university campuses to observe Lunar New Year without being penalized.