This bill establishes Vaisakhi and Bandi Chhor Divas as public holidays in the State of New Jersey. It amends Section 25 of P.L.2008, c.89 to include Vaisakhi as the fifth holiday and Bandi Chhor Divas as the eleventh holiday in the list of paid holidays for state government employees. The bill also modifies the numbering of subsequent holidays, removing the previous designations for those positions. Additionally, it amends R.S.36:1-1 to recognize both Vaisakhi and Bandi Chhor Divas as public holidays for various legal purposes, including the presentation of bills, checks, and promissory notes.

Vaisakhi is a significant Sikh festival that celebrates the harvest and the unification of Sikhs under the tenth guru, while Bandi Chhor Divas commemorates the release of Guru Hargobind Sahib from prison and symbolizes freedom and human rights. Both holidays reflect the core values of Sikhism, such as equality and community service, and are celebrated with various cultural and religious activities. The bill aims to honor the contributions of the Sikh community in New Jersey, which has a rich history and a significant population in the state. The act is set to take effect on January 1 following its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 11A:6-24.1