ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- It's that time of year again when you might hear "liberal leave" is in effect; usually due to adverse weather conditions.

But, what does that mean?

Liberal leave refers to any unscheduled leave federal employees may take in the event of extreme weather or a similar emergency, which prevents them from reporting to work as usual.

When a liberal leave policy is in effect, federal employees who are absent from work must request to use annual leave, leave without pay or compensatory time.

Employees taking liberal leave, or unscheduled leave, are required to inform their supervisors of that choice as quickly as possible; normally no later than two hours after the beginning of their scheduled work shift.

Exceptions: Federal employees whose work is deemed essential are designated "emergency employees" and are generally expected to report to work, even when a liberal leave policy is announced.

Telecommuting federal employees scheduled to work on that day are expected to proceed as normal unless the power is down or unless they inform their supervisors of their choice to take liberal leave.