Gov. Dave Heineman said Friday that state buildings will be closed and employees will be granted a day of leave on Friday, Dec. 26, as a result of an executive order signed last week by President George W. Bush.

State offices will be closed for the Christmas holiday on Thursday and Friday, Dec. 25-26.

State law provides that whenever the President gives federal employees paid time off the State of Nebraska shall grant the same benefit to state employees.

Exceptions may include law enforcement, security, military, and employees engaged in other essential functions.