President Biden Grants Federal Holiday on December 24

President Joe Biden has issued an executive order declaring December 24, 2024, a federal holiday for the executive branch, allowing federal employees to enjoy a day off on the eve of Christmas. This decision comes amidst the holiday season, providing a well-deserved break to government workers.

In keeping with tradition, the Architect of the Capitol has selected an 80-foot Sitka spruce from Alaska's Tongass National Forest to serve as the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree this year. The executive branch's observance of Christmas is a nod to this festive spirit, and the Office of Personnel Management will ensure that affected employees receive their basic pay for the day off, with no impact on their annual leave balances.

The executive order emphasizes that federal offices and installations may remain open and employees may be required to report for duty if deemed necessary for national security, defense, or public health reasons. The Director of the Office of Personnel Management will work to implement the order, affecting employees in accordance with Executive Order 11582 of 1971 and federal statutes 5 U.S.C. 5546 and 6103(b).

While the order acknowledges that it does not create any new rights or benefits, it is a welcome gesture from the administration, providing a well-deserved break for federal employees ahead of the holiday. As the nation enters the final stretch of the year, this small act of appreciation serves as a reminder of the importance of work-life balance and the value of time spent with loved ones during the holiday season.