Idaho governor gives state employees more time off around America250 celebration

Idaho Gov. Brad Little signed an executive order granting two extra days of paid time off for state employees near this year’s Independence Day, which will commemorate the 250th annual anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. 

In addition to paid leave that state employees were already set to receive on Friday, July 3, to recognize Independence Day, Little’s executive order gives state staffers July 2 and July 6 off, the governor’s office announced in a news release Monday.

“America’s 250th anniversary is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to celebrate the enduring ideals of freedom, self-government, and opportunity that have made our nation the greatest in the world,” the governor said in a written statement. “Idaho’s public servants work hard every day on behalf of their fellow citizens, and this additional time off allows them to celebrate this historic milestone with family and friends, participate in community events, and reflect on the sacrifices of the generations who secured and preserved our liberty.”

Little’s order is part of expanded efforts to celebrate Independence Day as part of America250. The Boise celebration will be headlined by songwriter and Moscow High School graduate Josh Ritter, state officials announced last month. Day use access fees at all Idaho state parks will also be waived for Idaho residents on July 4, the governor previously announced.

Idaho state courts will be open on the days in which the governor offered additional time off, July 2 and July 6, the State of Idaho Judicial Branch announced later Monday.