The Hindu American Foundation welcomes the significant milestone of three critical California legislative measures: Assembly Bill 395, which promotes greater recognition of cultural and religious observances in state scheduling; Assembly Bill 1836, which expands security funding for at-risk nonprofits hosting offsite events; and Assembly Bill 2664, which strengthens protections for safe access to houses of worship.
Together, these bills mark a major victory for religious liberty, civil rights, cultural recognition, and community safety for Hindus and all faith communities across the Golden State. HAF is proud to have supported all three bills, which have passed both the Senate and Assembly and are now headed to the Governor.
“The passage of this legislative package represents an important message to Californians about religious freedom, civic inclusion, and public safety in California,” said Samir Kalra, Esq., Managing Director of Policy & Programs at the Hindu American Foundation. “These measures ensure that Hindu Americans can practice their traditions and assemble without fear or compromising their commitment to their faith.”
AB 395, authored by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-46), establishes guidelines for state agencies to accommodate major cultural and religious observances when scheduling public events, meetings, and activities. By encouraging state entities to respect these cultural observances, AB 395 fosters a more inclusive government where community members can celebrate their heritage without compromise.
AB 1836, also authored by Assemblymember Gabriel, expands the California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program to allow at-risk organizations to use grant funding for security at offsite events held outside their permanent facilities. As hate-motivated incidents continue to weigh on vulnerable communities across California, AB 1836 ensures that organizers never have to choose between bringing people together and affording the security needed to keep them safe.
AB 2664, authored by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D-16), establishes clear, constitutional safeguards to protect worshippers from harassment, intimidation, and obstruction when entering or leaving houses of worship. This legislation provides a clear framework to protect safe access to places of worship while fully respecting First Amendment rights to peaceful protest.
HAF extends its deepest gratitude to Assemblymembers Gabriel and Rebecca Bauer-Kahan for their steadfast leadership in championing these essential protections. HAF also thanks the legislative leadership, co-sponsors, and advocacy partners who worked tirelessly to guide these measures through both chambers. HAF now looks to Governor Gavin Newsom to sign AB 395, AB 1836, and AB 2664 into law, which will ensure these critical safeguards take effect for faith communities across the state.
