MORGANTOWN — State employees will get all day Christmas Eve off.
State code makes Christmas Eve a half-day holiday for state employees when Christmas falls on a Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday. This year, Christmas Eve falls on a Tuesday and Gov. Jim Justice issued a proclamation on Wednesday granting state employees the whole day off.
He said in a release announcing the proclamation, “So many of our incredible public employees have worked tirelessly over the past year to bring all kinds of goodness to West Virginia. In honor of all these men and women do, it’s only right that they be given the opportunity to fully enjoy the Christmas holiday with their friends and loved ones.”
The proclamation exempts state employees “who may be called upon to safeguard the health safety and welfare of West Virginia’s citizenry.”
Justice’s proclamation does not affect local governments. However, the proclamation says, county commissions may give county employees the day off without it affecting their accrued annual leave. And state courts may treat the day as a legal holiday.
Justice said in his release, “I encourage everyone to take time this holiday season to get out and explore all of the wonders we have right here in our great state. Whether it’s taking in the excitement of our unmatched ski slopes, checking out one of our beautiful Christmas lights displays, or simply nestling down with family in one of our cozy winter lodging facilities, there are endless ways to make your holiday one to remember in Almost Heaven.”
Last year, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve fell on Mondays and Justice gave state employees those days off.
Wednesday’s proclamation doesn’t mention this New Year’s Eve.
Tweet David Beard @dbeardtdp Email dbeard@dominionpost.com
