OPM has reissued its guidance on agency operating status during weather emergencies, a guide officially only for the Washington, D.C. area but used as a model policy elsewhere. The only significant change involves employees who were on pre-approved annual leave for the time a closing is in effect. Under prior policy, that status could be changed to excused absence; as a practical matter, practices varied, with some agencies granting excused absence instead and others charging the time as annual leave regardless of the closing. Under the new policy, employees are to remain on annual leave although those able to telework may choose to telework that day instead. There will be no expectation that such employees will work, however. For a closer look, go to www.fedweek.com in the free info section of our website.