Federal employees have suffered years of little cost of living increases along with the strain of threatened shutdowns and the loss of pay. Morale is at an all time low and a paid day off to spend with their families would go a long way towards making employees feel appreciated.
From Mike Causey's column on November 20, 2015 entitled "Bonus Christmas holiday? Here’s the rule of thumb":
Anyone looking to give the economy a much-needed boost would probably recommend a day off on Friday the 24th. Feds represent a considerable portion of the buyers’ market in many communities. Setting them free for an extra, last minute shopping spree would be a blessing to merchants, restaurants and parking lot owners.
It makes sense for the economy and government workers. It's a win-win!