IX.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

A.

The Navajo Nation offers several benefit programs for employees. Eligibility may be based on length of service, employment status or salary. Specific descriptions of the benefits are available from the following Programs: Tribal Retirement Office, Employee Benefits Office, Workers' Comp and Employee Assistance. Additional benefit programs may be added or others deleted as approved.

B.

Paid Holidays

1.

The following days shall be recognized as paid holidays:

Additional holidays include any day designated as a holiday by federal statute, Executive Order of the President of the United States, or action of the Navajo Nation Council, the President of the Navajo Nation, or the Speaker, Navajo Nation Council.

2.

All employees except temporary employees are eligible for paid holidays.

3.

Holidays falling on a Saturday will be observed on the preceding Friday. Holidays falling on a Sunday will be observed on the following Mondays.

4.

An eligible employee with an unexcused absence on normal work days prior to or after a designated paid holiday, will not be paid for the holiday.

5.

If a holiday occurs when an eligible employee is on approved leave, the absence will not be charged against his/her accrued leave.

6.

An eligible employee who is on a scheduled day off when a holiday is observed will be paid at his/her regular rate of pay.

7.

An eligible employee required to work on a designated holiday who does not report to work and is not excused, will forfeit the holiday pay.

8.

Any employee who is required to work on a holiday and does work shall be paid at twice his/her regular rate of pay. (See Section VII. H). Employees working on a holiday will not be given equivalent time off before or after the holiday.

C.

Leaves of Absence

Employee benefits include leaves of absence. See Section X for discussion on the types of leave.

D.

Staff Development and Training

Employees are encouraged to participate in job related training to enhance job performance, develop and strengthen skills, and to keep current on specific developments and trends. The Staff Development and Training Program is responsible for monitoring and administering training activities.