TIME-OFF GRANTED TO CALIFORNIA FLOOD VICTIMS

Washington, D.C. -- President Bill Clinton has authorized time-off for federal civilian employees who face a personal emergency as a result of widespread flooding in California. Employees who can be spared from official duties will be excused from work without charge to leave, or loss of pay. In addition, federal employees who are needed to support emergency law enforcement, relief, or clean-up efforts authorized by federal, state or local officials may also be excused from duty.

"I am deeply concerned about the devastating losses caused by widespread flooding in California and the impact on the well-being and livelihood of our fellow Americans who have been affected by this disaster," the President wrote in a memorandum to federal agencies.

Office of Personnel Management Director Jim King has notified the heads of executive departments and agencies of the President's decision allowing them to "use their discretion" in authorizing time-off for employees affected by the disaster.

"At this time of great personal hardship, and in the best interest of those affected by the flooding, it is important that our colleagues be given time to recover from the havoc and put their lives in order, as well as to give time to federal workers who are assisting in disaster relief efforts," said Jim King.

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