US state’s Senate passes bill to allow fireworks during Diwali

New York, (IANS) The Utah Senate in the United States unanimously passed a bill making Diwali a state commemorative period and allowing fireworks to be discharged during the Indian festival of lights.

Senate Bill 46, introduced by Senator Lincoln Fillmore of South Jordan, was unanimously approved last week, according to ABC4.

The bill would declare Diwali a state commemorative period and allow the sale and discharge of fireworks during the five days of Diwali, which fall between late October and early November each year.

Fillmore stated that one of his constituents in Herriman contacted him and gave him the idea for this bill, which only needs one more vote before heading to the House of Representatives.

“I admire Utah’s Indian community. Their collaborative efforts to organise events that include neighbouring communities, as well as their efforts to increase education about Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism, have helped create a better sense of understanding in our state “Senator Fillmore stated in a statement.

“This bill recognises other cultures, adding to Utah’s wonderful tapestry.”

The bill will be scheduled for a third reading in the Utah Senate soon.

Diwali was first celebrated in the White House in 2002, and the festival received official recognition from the US government in 2007.

The Diwali Day Act was introduced in the United States in 2021 to make the festival a federal holiday.

Diwali will be celebrated on November 12 this year.