The purpose of the army leaves and passes regulation is to provide clear guidance on leave procedures. It also ensures compliance with AR 600-8-10 and promotes the safety of Soldiers and their families while on leave. The policy applies to all Soldiers who are attached or assigned to a unit. Soldiers must obtain approval from their Troop Commander before taking leave. This is an important element of a healthy and well-functioning unit. Commanders should implement a fair, consistent, and equitable program for all soldiers.
The Army has made changes to the DA Form 4179 and Department of Army Form 31 to make the process easier. The updated DA Form 31 (Request and Authority for Leave) is used to request leave. In addition, DA Form 4179 (Leave Log) is used to track leave hours and the dates of absences.
Soldiers are provided with 30 days of leave every year. Leave is typically used when an individual needs to be away from service for a period longer than their normal working schedule allows. The amount of time is accumulated at a rate of 2.5 days per month, and it is noted on the Leave and Earnings Statement every month.
Special passes may be granted for periods up to four days. These days can include the weekend and two consecutive days off from duty. In addition to leave, a Soldier may also receive a special pass for an event that occurs during the regular workweek. The four-day special pass period normally begins at the end of normal working hours on a given day, and ends on the fourth day following three consecutive days of leave.
The Army leaves and passes regulation covers a wide variety of situations. The new regulations also cover the rights and benefits of parents and other family members. In addition, the Army has updated its DA Form 4179 and AR 600-8-10, which explain the military parental leave policy. In addition, AR 600-8-10 clarifies the various types of leave, including childbirth leave, and holiday leave.
The military allows its members to roll over their leave from one year to the next. However, members must use the time they have accrued in the current year or risk losing it. Generally, military members can accrue up to 60 days of leave per year. If they do not use the time they have accrued by the end of the fiscal year (September), the excess days are forfeited.
In addition to leaves and passes, the army also has PTDY regulations. A soldier cannot use PTDY in combination with ordinary leave. A duty day must occur in between the two leave periods. However, a soldier can take a PTDY during their transition leave. However, he or she should take note of the restrictions on taking PTDY in combination with ordinary leave.