Because of the government’s obligation to serve its citizens, state offices will remain open on all workdays, regardless of the weather. Cabinet members will determine staffing levels needed during inclement weather. If inclement weather threatens or occurs, employees who do not wish to report to or remain at their work site may be absent with the prior approval of their supervisor.

In cases where the state does not control the building in which a state office is located, state managers should work with building owners or leasers to ensure that state offices can remain open at least for communicating with the public and handling administrative duties.

Employees who do not work due to inclement weather have three options:

1) They can adjust their work week.
2) They can take annual leave.
3) They can take leave without pay. This policy is effective even if no employee can reach the work site.

In the event that no employee can reach the work site, the cabinet officer must approve the closing of any office outside the Pierre area, and that cabinet officer is responsible for announcing to local radio stations that the office is not currently staffed. Cabinet officers should continuously reevaluate weather conditions during the day so that the office can conduct business as soon as possible.

The Governor will determine whether state government offices in Pierre will be staffed and will notify local radio stations.