Florida Governor Delivers Holiday Cheer: Surprise Extra PTO for State Workers
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared extra days off for state employees in December 2024, further solidifying his playful nickname, “DeSanta Claus.”
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced that state employees will receive an additional three days off this December. In a message posted on X, the governor shared that, alongside the traditional holidays of Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, state workers will also get December 23, 24, and 31 as paid days off.
This move is aimed at allowing state employees to enjoy more quality time with their families and loved ones during the holiday season. As a result, state offices will be closed on all five of these days, as confirmed in a press release issued by the governor’s office.
Governor Ron DeSantis emphasized Florida’s strong position and the importance of recognizing the efforts of state employees, stating, “Florida is in great shape, and we want to reward our state employees.”
He went on to highlight the challenges of the past year, including the impact of three costly hurricanes, and expressed hope that the additional days off would provide state workers with more opportunities to spend quality time with their families and loved ones during the holiday season. According to a press release, DeSantis’ gesture is intended as a reward for their hard work and resilience.
In addition, Dan Barrow, a representative from the Florida Department of Management Services, confirmed to Fox News Digital that state employees were also granted the day off on November 27, the day before Thanksgiving. This earlier time off was another example of the state’s commitment to providing rest and appreciation for its workers.
The Florida Department of Management Services’ website outlines the nine dates that state agencies will observe as paid holidays in 2024. These include key national and cultural observances such as New Year’s Day, the Birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, the day after Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. These holidays are officially recognized, ensuring that state employees receive paid time off to celebrate and honor these important occasions.
The Florida Department of Management Services also notes that full-time state employees are entitled to one personal holiday each year, which can be taken at their discretion. In addition to the standard paid holidays, this personal holiday provides workers with additional flexibility to take time off as needed.
Looking back to the previous year, Governor Ron DeSantis announced several additional closures for state offices beyond the usual holiday breaks. According to a press release from November 2023, state offices were closed on November 22, December 26, December 29, and January 2. These closures were in addition to the regular holidays, offering state employees extra time off during the holiday season.
Governor Ron DeSantis expressed deep appreciation for the dedication and hard work of Florida’s state employees, noting that they have consistently gone above and beyond to support Florida families throughout the year. He highlighted their selfless efforts, particularly in response to Hurricane Idalia and the State of Florida’s Israel Rescue Operation in recent months.
According to the press release, DeSantis emphasized that closing state offices on these extra days would give employees a well-deserved opportunity to spend quality time with their families and loved ones, allowing them to relax and enjoy the holiday season after their tireless work in challenging circumstances.
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