As we celebrate this special day, let us reflect on our shared values and our commitment to the promise of striving for a more perfect union. While we recognize the tremendous strides we have made in ensuring freedom, equality, and justice for all, we must also acknowledge there is more work to be done.
 
I invite you to join me in expressing my heartfelt gratitude to all USDA civil servants for your dedication and commitment to upholding the USDA vision statement “to provide economic opportunity through innovation, helping rural America to thrive; to promote agriculture production that better nourishes Americans while also helping feed others throughout the world; and to preserve our Nation’s natural resources through conservation, restored forests, improved watersheds, and healthy private working lands.” Your commitment is instrumental in shaping a better future for our nation.
In recognition of this Independence Day, and to acknowledge the hard work and dedication USDA employees demonstrate every day, I am pleased to announce that Secretary Vilsack has authorized a two-hour early release for employees on Friday, June 30th.

• Employees should code their timesheet using “66 – Admin/Excused Absence” (WebTA) or “TC-66 Other Leave” (Paycheck8).
• Employees who are unable to participate in the early departure on Friday, June 30th, due to mission critical needs will code their timesheet as normal, “01 – Regular Base Pay”.
• If Friday is a non-workday or if the employee is on preapproved paid leave on Friday, then they may use the two hours on a different day. Employees must work directly with their supervisor to identify another day within the current pay period, or within the next two pay periods (July 7 to July 28) to use the two-hour release authorization. The two hours do not need to be used on the same day and may be combined with other leave, but the total amount must be used by July 28, 2023.
• 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 administrative leave for an early release. If employees are in a “use-or-lose” situation, the two hours do not constitute an exigency of public business and does not qualify to have annual leave restored.

Let us embrace this day with gratitude and a renewed dedication to the principles that define our great nation.

Wishing you all a joyful and meaningful Fourth of July!

Sincerely,

Malcom Shorter
Acting Assistant Secretary for Administration