This measure would recognize the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith and extend sincere best wishes to the states Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day.

This measure would recognize the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith and extend sincere best wishes to the states Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day.

This measure would recognize the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith and extend sincere best wishes to the states Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day.

This measure would recognize the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith and extend sincere best wishes to the states Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day.

WHEREAS, Vesak Day, one of the most important and sacred holidays to Buddhists worldwide, commemorates the life, enlightenment, and death of Buddha; and

WHEREAS, Born between 560 and 400 B.C.E., the Buddha, or Siddhartha Gautama, was the son of an Indian king. After leaving behind his home and his royal title to become an ascetic, he resolved to find an end to human suffering, which led him to identifying the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path toward enlightenment; and

WHEREAS, Some 2,500 years later, followers of Buddhism honor the legacy of the religions founder on Vesak Day. Depending on the country where it is celebrated, the holiday occurs on the Day of the Full Moon, which is the first full moon of May or on the full moon of the fourth lunar month; and

WHEREAS, This year Vesak Day will be observed on May 1, according to the lunar calendar; and

WHEREAS, In countries using the Gregorian calendar, Vesak Day is recognized annually on April 8; and

WHEREAS, Many observe the holiday by reaffirming their commitment to the moral precepts of Buddhism, performing good deeds, devoting time to chanting and meditation, and other customs, including lighting lanterns, decorating with flowers, and enjoying traditional Asian dishes; and

WHEREAS, Many Californians have found inspiration and spiritual guidance in the Buddhist faith, and many worship at temples and meditation facilities located in cities across the state; and

WHEREAS, The teachings of Buddha have inspired millions of people around the globe to strive for inner peace and to demonstrate greater compassion, tolerance, and understanding in their lives, and it is fitting to acknowledge the great importance of Vesak Day to the Buddhists who reside in California and beyond; and

WHEREAS, California has a large number of Buddhists, particularly from Asia; and

WHEREAS, The California State Assembly chaplains are a Buddhist married couple; and

WHEREAS, Buddhists have advocated for and made significant efforts to achieve peace, including the Walk for Peace from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, DC, organized by Buddhist monks, which gained hundreds of thousands of American supporters from all demographics; and

WHEREAS, The recent pilgrimage and example of mindfulness demonstrated by Thich Minh Tue has drawn international attention to the enduring power of Buddhist practice, humility, and peaceful devotion, inspiring many to reflect more deeply on the core teachings of compassion and simplicity; and

WHEREAS, Buddhists have advocated for, and made significant efforts to achieve, peace; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature recognizes the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith and extends sincere wishes to the states Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, Vesak Day, one of the most important and sacred holidays to Buddhists worldwide, commemorates the life, enlightenment, and death of Buddha; and

WHEREAS, Born between 560 and 400 B.C.E., the Buddha, or Siddhartha Gautama, was the son of an Indian king. After leaving behind his home and his royal title to become an ascetic, he resolved to find an end to human suffering, which led him to identifying the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path toward enlightenment; and

WHEREAS, Some 2,500 years later, followers of Buddhism honor the legacy of the religions founder on Vesak Day. Depending on the country where it is celebrated, the holiday occurs on the Day of the Full Moon, which is the first full moon of May or on the full moon of the fourth lunar month; and

WHEREAS, This year Vesak Day will be observed on May 1, according to the lunar calendar; and

WHEREAS, In countries using the Gregorian calendar, Vesak Day is recognized annually on April 8; and

WHEREAS, Many observe the holiday by reaffirming their commitment to the moral precepts of Buddhism, performing good deeds, devoting time to chanting and meditation, and other customs, including lighting lanterns, decorating with flowers, and enjoying traditional Asian dishes; and

WHEREAS, Many Californians have found inspiration and spiritual guidance in the Buddhist faith, and many worship at temples and meditation facilities located in cities across the state; and

WHEREAS, The teachings of Buddha have inspired millions of people around the globe to strive for inner peace and to demonstrate greater compassion, tolerance, and understanding in their lives, and it is fitting to acknowledge the great importance of Vesak Day to the Buddhists who reside in California and beyond; and

WHEREAS, California has a large number of Buddhists, particularly from Asia; and

WHEREAS, The California State Assembly chaplains are a Buddhist married couple; and

WHEREAS, Buddhists have advocated for and made significant efforts to achieve peace, including the Walk for Peace from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, DC, organized by Buddhist monks, which gained hundreds of thousands of American supporters from all demographics; and

WHEREAS, The recent pilgrimage and example of mindfulness demonstrated by Thich Minh Tue has drawn international attention to the enduring power of Buddhist practice, humility, and peaceful devotion, inspiring many to reflect more deeply on the core teachings of compassion and simplicity; and

WHEREAS, Buddhists have advocated for, and made significant efforts to achieve, peace; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature recognizes the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith and extends sincere wishes to the states Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, Vesak Day, one of the most important and sacred holidays to Buddhists worldwide, commemorates the life, enlightenment, and death of Buddha; and

WHEREAS, Born between 560 and 400 B.C.E., the Buddha, or Siddhartha Gautama, was the son of an Indian king. After leaving behind his home and his royal title to become an ascetic, he resolved to find an end to human suffering, which led him to identifying the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path toward enlightenment; and

WHEREAS, Some 2,500 years later, followers of Buddhism honor the legacy of the religions founder on Vesak Day. Depending on the country where it is celebrated, the holiday occurs on the Day of the Full Moon, which is the first full moon of May or on the full moon of the fourth lunar month; and

WHEREAS, This year Vesak Day will be observed on May 1, according to the lunar calendar; and

WHEREAS, In countries using the Gregorian calendar, Vesak Day is recognized annually on April 8; and

WHEREAS, Many observe the holiday by reaffirming their commitment to the moral precepts of Buddhism, performing good deeds, devoting time to chanting and meditation, and other customs, including lighting lanterns, decorating with flowers, and enjoying traditional Asian dishes; and

WHEREAS, Many Californians have found inspiration and spiritual guidance in the Buddhist faith, and many worship at temples and meditation facilities located in cities across the state; and

WHEREAS, The teachings of Buddha have inspired millions of people around the globe to strive for inner peace and to demonstrate greater compassion, tolerance, and understanding in their lives, and it is fitting to acknowledge the great importance of Vesak Day to the Buddhists who reside in California and beyond; and

WHEREAS, California has a large number of Buddhists, particularly from Asia; and

WHEREAS, The California State Assembly chaplains are a Buddhist married couple; and

WHEREAS, Buddhists have advocated for and made significant efforts to achieve peace, including the Walk for Peace form Houston from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, DC, organized by Buddhist monks, which gained hundreds of thousands of American supporters from all demographics; and

WHEREAS, The recent pilgrimage and example of mindfulness demonstrated by Thich Minh Tue has drawn international attention to the enduring power of Buddhist practice, humility, and peaceful devotion, inspiring many to reflect more deeply on the core teachings of compassion and simplicity; and

WHEREAS, Buddhists have advocated for, and made significant efforts to achieve, peace; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature recognizes the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith and extends sincere wishes to the states Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

WHEREAS, Vesak Day, one of the most important and sacred holidays to Buddhists worldwide, commemorates the life, enlightenment, and death of Buddha; and

WHEREAS, Born between 560 and 400 B.C.E., the Buddha, or Siddhartha Gautama, was the son of an Indian king. After leaving behind his home and his royal title to become an ascetic, he resolved to find an end to human suffering, which led him to identifying the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path toward enlightenment; and

WHEREAS, Some 2,500 years later, followers of Buddhism honor the legacy of the religions founder on Vesak Day. Depending on the country where it is celebrated, the holiday occurs on the Day of the Full Moon, which is the first full moon of May or on the full moon of the fourth lunar month; and

WHEREAS, This year Vesak Day will be observed on May 1, according to the lunar calendar; and

WHEREAS, In countries using the Gregorian calendar, Vesak Day is recognized annually on April 8; and

WHEREAS, Many observe the holiday by reaffirming their commitment to the moral precepts of Buddhism, performing good deeds, devoting time to chanting and meditation, and other customs, including lighting lanterns, decorating with flowers, and enjoying traditional Asian dishes; and

WHEREAS, Many Californians have found inspiration and spiritual guidance in the Buddhist faith, and many worship at temples and meditation facilities located in cities across the state; and

WHEREAS, The teachings of Buddha have inspired millions of people around the globe to strive for inner peace and to demonstrate greater compassion, tolerance, and understanding in their lives, and it is fitting to acknowledge the great importance of Vesak Day to the Buddhists who reside in California and beyond; and

WHEREAS, California has a large number of Buddhists, particularly from Asia; and

WHEREAS, The California State Assembly chaplains are a Buddhist married couple; and

WHEREAS, Buddhists have advocated for and made significant efforts to achieve peace, including the Walk for Peace form Houston to Washington, DC, organized by Buddhist monks, which gained hundreds of thousands of American supporters from all demographics; and

WHEREAS, The recent pilgrimage and example of mindfulness demonstrated by Thich Minh Tue has drawn international attention to the enduring power of Buddhist practice, humility, and peaceful devotion, inspiring many to reflect more deeply on the core teachings of compassion and simplicity; and

WHEREAS, Buddhists have advocated for, and made significant efforts to achieve, peace; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature recognizes the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith and extends sincere wishes to the states Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day; and be it further

Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.

CONCURRENCE IN SENATE AMENDMENTS

CSA1 Bill Id:ACR 141

Author:(Ta)

As Amended Ver:April 16, 2026

Majority vote

SUMMARY

Recognizes the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith, and extends sincere wishes to the state's Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day.

Senate Amendments

Clarified that the Walk for Peace goes from Forth Worth, Texas, to Washington, DC, and made a technical change.

COMMENTS

According to the Author

Vesak Day commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Siddhartha Gautama, whose teachings on compassion and peace continue to inspire millions worldwide. This measure recognizes the significance of Vesak and the contributions of California's Buddhist community in promoting mindfulness, service, and harmony.

Arguments in Support

None on file

Arguments in Opposition

None on file

FISCAL COMMENTS

No fiscal impact. This resolution is keyed non-fiscal by Legislative Counsel.

VOTES:

ASM RULES: 7-0-3

YES: Pacheco, Ahrens, Dixon, Garcia, Ta, Michelle Rodriguez, Sanchez

ABS, ABST OR NV: Mark González, Irwin, Zbur

SENATE FLOOR: 36-0-4

YES: Allen, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi, Cortese, Dahle, Durazo, Grayson, Hurtado, Jones, Laird, Limón, McGuire, McNerney, Menjivar, Ochoa Bogh, Padilla, Pérez, Reyes, Richardson, Rubio, Seyarto, Smallwood-Cuevas, Stern, Strickland, Umberg, Valladares, Wahab, Weber Pierson, Wiener

ABS, ABST OR NV: Alvarado-Gil, Gonzalez, Grove, Niello

UPDATED

VERSION: April 16, 2026

CONSULTANT: Michael Erke / RLS. / (916) 319-2800 FN: 0002535

 THIRD READING 

Bill No: ACR 141

Author: Ta (R), et al.

Amended: 4/16/26 in Senate

Vote: 21

SUBJECT: Vesak Day

SOURCE: Author

DIGEST:

This resolution recognizes the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith and extends sincere best wishes to the state’s Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day.

ANALYSIS: This resolution makes the following legislative findings:

1. Vesak Day, one of the most important and sacred holidays to Buddhists worldwide, commemorates the life, enlightenment, and death of Buddha.
2. In countries using the Gregorian calendar, Vesak Day is recognized annually on April 8. This year Vesak Day will be observed on May 1, according to the lunar calendar.
3. Many observe the holiday by reaffirming their commitment to the moral precepts of Buddhism, performing good deeds, devoting time to chanting and meditation, and other customs, including lighting lanterns, decorating with flowers, and enjoying traditional Asian dishes.
4. The teachings of Buddha have inspired millions of people around the globe to strive for inner peace and to demonstrate greater compassion, tolerance, and understanding in their lives, and it is fitting to acknowledge the great importance of Vesak Day to the Buddhists who reside in California and beyond.

This resolution recognizes the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith and extends sincere best wishes to the state’s Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day.

FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: No Local: No

SUPPORT: (Verified 4/20/26)

None received

OPPOSITION: (Verified 4/20/26)

None received

Prepared by: Aizenia Randhawa / SFA / (916) 651-4171

4/22/26 14:04:18

**** END ****

ASSEMBLY THIRD READING

ATR Bill Id:ACR 141

Author:(Ta)

As Introduced Version:February 19, 2026

Majority vote

SUMMARY

Recognizes the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith, and extends sincere wishes to the state's Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day.

Major Provisions

1. Vesak Day, one of the most important and sacred holidays to Buddhists worldwide, commemorates the life, enlightenment, and death of Buddha.
2. Depending on the country where it is celebrated, the holiday occurs on the Day of the Full Moon, which is the first full moon of May or on the full moon of the fourth lunar month.
3. This year Vesak Day will be observed on May 1, according to the lunar calendar. In countries using the Gregorian calendar, Vesak Day is recognized annually on April 8.
4. Many observe the holiday by reaffirming their commitment to the moral precepts of Buddhism, performing good deeds, devoting time to chanting and meditation, and other customs, including lighting lanterns, decorating with flowers, and enjoying traditional Asian dishes.
5. California has a large number of Buddhists, particularly from Asia. Many Californians have found inspiration and spiritual guidance in the Buddhist faith, and many worship at temples and meditation facilities located in cities across the state.
6. The California State Assembly chaplains are a Buddhist married couple.
7. The teachings of Buddha have inspired millions of people around the globe to strive for inner peace and to demonstrate greater compassion, tolerance, and understanding in their lives, and it is fitting to acknowledge the great importance of Vesak Day to the Buddhists who reside in California and beyond.

COMMENTS

According to the Author

Vesak Day commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Siddhartha Gautama, whose teachings on compassion and peace continue to inspire millions worldwide. This measure recognizes the significance of Vesak and the contributions of California's Buddhist community in promoting mindfulness, service, and harmony.

Arguments in Support

None on file

Arguments in Opposition

None on file

FISCAL COMMENTS

No fiscal impact. This resolution is keyed non-fiscal by Legislative Counsel.

VOTES

ASM RULES: 7-0-3

YES: Pacheco, Ahrens, Dixon, Garcia, Ta, Michelle Rodriguez, Sanchez

ABS, ABST OR NV: Mark González, Irwin, Zbur

UPDATED

VERSION: February 19, 2026

CONSULTANT: Michael Erke / RLS. / (916) 319-2800 FN: 0002317

Date of Hearing: March 23, 2026

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON RULES

Blanca Pacheco, Chair

ABPCA Bill Id:ACR 141 (

Author:Ta) – As Introduced Ver:February 19, 2026

SUBJECT: Vesak Day.

SUMMARY: Recognizes the significance of Vesak Day to people of Buddhist faith, and extends sincere wishes to the state’s Buddhist community in celebrating Vesak Day. Specifically, this resolution makes the following legislative findings:

1. Vesak Day, one of the most important and sacred holidays to Buddhists worldwide, commemorates the life, enlightenment, and death of Buddha.
2. Depending on the country where it is celebrated, the holiday occurs on the Day of the Full Moon, which is the first full moon of May or on the full moon of the fourth lunar month.
3. This year Vesak Day will be observed on May 1, according to the lunar calendar. In countries using the Gregorian calendar, Vesak Day is recognized annually on April 8.
4. Many observe the holiday by reaffirming their commitment to the moral precepts of Buddhism, performing good deeds, devoting time to chanting and meditation, and other customs, including lighting lanterns, decorating with flowers, and enjoying traditional Asian dishes.
5. California has a large number of Buddhists, particularly from Asia. Many Californians have found inspiration and spiritual guidance in the Buddhist faith, and many worship at temples and meditation facilities located in cities across the state.
6. The California State Assembly chaplains are a Buddhist married couple.
7. The teachings of Buddha have inspired millions of people around the globe to strive for inner peace and to demonstrate greater compassion, tolerance, and understanding in their lives, and it is fitting to acknowledge the great importance of Vesak Day to the Buddhists who reside in California and beyond.

FISCAL EFFECT: This resolution is keyed non-fiscal by Legislative Counsel.

REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:

Support

None on file

Opposition

None on file

Analysis Prepared by: Michael Erke / RLS. / (916) 319-2800