In government, a furlough means placing an employee in a temporary non-duty, non-pay status because of a lack of work or funds or other non-disciplinary reasons. It typically happens during government shutdowns or budget shortfalls when non-essential government employees must temporarily stop working and are not paid during this period. Furloughed employees retain their jobs and benefits and are usually expected to return to work once funding is restored or the shutdown ends. Unlike layoffs, furloughs are temporary and employees are not permanently dismissed but may experience unpaid time off for a limited duration.
Key Points about Furlough in Government:
- It is a temporary leave without pay due to insufficient funds or work.
- It usually occurs during government shutdowns or budget crises.
- Employees keep their positions and benefits but do not work or get paid during furlough.
- Furloughs differ from layoffs, which are permanent job terminations.
This explanation captures the essential meaning of furlough in a government context.
