Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced that public sector employees in the state will receive three extra holiday days around Christmas and New Year, allowing them more time to celebrate with their families. "In addition to Christmas Day and New Year's Day, state workers will have December 23, 24, and 31 off to spend more quality time with their loved ones this holiday season," DeSantis shared on X.
The official press release noted that state offices will be closed on these five days. "Florida is doing great, and we want to reward our state employees," the governor stated in the document. "After a full year, including three costly hurricanes, we hope these additional days off will enable state workers to enjoy more time with their families during the festive season," he added.
The Republican leader emphasized the dedication of state employees who have worked tirelessly to support families, particularly highlighting their selfless response to Hurricane Idalia and Florida's Operation Israel Rescue. The intention behind these extra days is to provide "well-deserved time with their families as they enjoy the holiday season."
This initiative will benefit over 100,000 state employees. According to Dan Barrow, spokesperson for the Department of Administrative Services, essential workers unable to take these days off will have the opportunity to do so within the next seven months.
This is not the first time DeSantis' administration has extended additional days off during holidays such as Thanksgiving, the Fourth of July, and the Christmas and New Year weeks, often allowing employees to enjoy extended weekends. Florida employees are entitled to nine paid holidays throughout the year, which include: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day and the following Friday, and Christmas.
Understanding Holiday Policies for Florida State Employees
What extra holidays are Florida state employees receiving?
Florida state employees will receive three additional holidays: December 23, 24, and 31, alongside Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
How many paid holidays do Florida state employees typically get?
Florida state employees are typically entitled to nine paid holidays each year.
Can essential workers take these additional holidays at a different time?
Yes, essential workers who cannot take these days off will be able to take the holidays at a later date within the next seven months.