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The New York State Senate passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Thomas that expands religious holiday recognition in schools outside New York City. The bill, which amends the Education Law, allows school districts to grant holidays for observances including Eid, Diwali, and Lunar New Year. The measure passed on a roll call vote, 63-0. Sen. Thomas, explaining his affirmative vote, called the legislation historic and said it addresses a decades-long issue for Asian-American families who previously had to choose between sending children to school or observing religious holidays. Thomas noted that Asian-Americans represent one of the fastest-growing ethnic communities in New York State and said the bill is particularly important for suburban communities and youth. He credited the Senate supermajority leadership and the Asian Caucus for supporting the measure's floor consideration.