What's Happening?
President Trump has issued an executive order granting federal workers two additional holidays around Christmas: Christmas Eve and the day after Christmas. This move extends the previous practice of giving
federal employees Christmas Eve off, which Trump had done in 2019 and 2020. The decision comes after a challenging period for federal workers, including a record-breaking 43-day government shutdown. While the executive order allows agency heads to require certain employees to work on these days, it sets a precedent that could influence private sector holiday policies. The addition of these holidays is notable given Trump's previous criticism of the growing number of national holidays.
Why It's Important?
The establishment of new federal holidays by President Trump reflects a significant shift in federal employment policy, potentially setting a precedent for the private sector. This decision may enhance employee morale and work-life balance, particularly following a period of government instability. However, it also raises questions about the economic impact of additional non-working days and the balance between public sector benefits and private sector practices. The move could influence future discussions on national holiday policies and the role of executive power in shaping federal employment standards.
