For many Americans, Labor Day represents the end of summer and the start of back-to-school season and is usually celebrated in cities and towns with parades, barbecues, fireworks and other social gatherings. However, the true meaning of Labor Day is to honor and celebrate hardworking and dedicated employees like yourself. Among many other things, USDA’s more than 100,000 employees across the world work hard to promote innovative and economic opportunities, provide access to safe and nutritious food, strengthen rural communities, and preserve our nation’s natural resources. Like last year, this year takes an even more significant meaning as you continue to fulfill our mission amidst a global pandemic.

As we celebrate this Labor Day, I ask that you join me in honoring the life of labor movement giant and working people’s champion Richard Trumka, who served as president of the AFL-CIO’s 12.5 million members from 2009 until his death on Aug. 5, 2021. Trumka was an outspoken advocate for social and economic justice, and one of the nation’s clearest voices on the critical need to ensure that all workers have a good job and the power to determine their wages and improve their working conditions.

In recognition of the Labor Day holiday, and to acknowledge the hard work and unwavering commitment that our department’s employees demonstrate in furthering our mission every day, I am pleased to announce that Secretary Vilsack has authorized a two-hour early release for employees on Friday, Sept. 3.

• Coding the Timesheet. Employees should code their timesheet using “66 – Admin/Excused Absence” (WebTA) or “TC-66 Other Leave” (Paycheck8).
• Mission Essential Employees. Employees who are required to work on Friday, Sept. 3, due to mission critical needs will code their timesheet as normal, “01 – Regular Base Pay.”  
• Not Able to Participate. If employees are unable to participate in the early departure on Sept. 3 due to mission critical needs, or if Friday is a non-workday, or if the employee is on preapproved paid leave on Friday, then the employee may use the two hours on a different day. Employees should work directly with their supervisor to identify another day within the current pay period, or within the next two pay periods (Sept. 12-Oct. 9) to use the two-hour time off authorization. The two hours do not need to be used on the same day, but it should be used by Oct. 9.
• Leave may only be charged during an employee’s scheduled tour of duty. Employees in a continuous period of non-pay status may not be placed in a pay status solely to receive two hours of administrative leave for an early release.

USDA leadership is tremendously grateful for all that you do to further USDA’s mission. This Labor Day, I hope you take time to rest, relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor with those who are important to you.

*If you are a bargaining unit employee and have questions regarding the content of this message and its potential impact on a current labor agreement, please refer them to your local union representative.