Closing of Executive Departments and Agencies on December 24, 2018

Dec 21, 2018

Summary

Gives federal employees the day off on Monday, December 24, 2018, the day before Christmas Day, treating it as a holiday for pay and leave.

What problem does this solve?

Federal employees were scheduled to work on Christmas Eve, a day many people spend with family. This order closes federal offices and gives most employees a paid day off to be with their families.

What does this order do?

Closes federal agencies on December 24, 2018

Orders all executive departments and agencies of the Federal Government to be closed on Monday, December 24, 2018.

Allows exceptions for essential employees

Permits agency heads to require certain employees to work for reasons of national security, defense, or other public needs.

Defines pay and leave status for the day off

States that December 24, 2018, will be treated as a holiday for pay and leave purposes for federal employees.

Who does this affect?

Federal government employees

What is the real world impact?

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Provides a holiday for federal employees

Gives most federal government workers the day off on Christmas Eve, treating it as a paid holiday. This is a common practice for presidents to boost morale among the federal workforce.

When does this start?

This order took effect on December 24, 2018, closing federal offices for that single day.