In a notable decision, President Joe Biden has declared that federal agencies will close on Christmas Eve, providing federal employees with an additional day off before the holiday
This announcement, made on December 19th, was communicated through an executive order signed by the President. The order specifies that all executive departments and agencies of the federal government will be closed, and employees will be excused from their duties on December 24, 2024.
While the day has been designated as a holiday, it's important to note that not all federal employees will enjoy the day off.
According to the executive order, certain parts of the government must remain operational due to security, defense, or other public needs. This ensures that essential services continue to function, even as most employees enjoy the holiday break.
This decision marks the first time the Biden administration has closed federal agencies on Christmas Eve during his presidency. The anticipation of this announcement is a yearly occurrence for federal employees, who look forward to the possibility of an extra day off in December
Historically, the decision to close federal agencies on Christmas Eve has been handled differently by each administration. During his tenure, President Donald Trump granted federal employees an extra day off on Christmas Eve in 2018, 2019, and 2020
In contrast, President Barack Obama designated December 26, 2014, as a holiday instead of Christmas Eve. Similarly, former President George W. Bush also marked December 24 as a holiday on multiple occasions.