FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, June 11, 2012
CONTACT OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS
202-482-4883

Tonight, U.S. Commerce Secretary John Bryson notified President Obama that he would be taking a medical leave of absence and immediately transferring his functions and duties as Secretary to Deputy Secretary Dr. Rebecca Blank. Effective immediately, Dr. Blank will become Acting Secretary of Commerce. Below is a copy of the memo to Deputy Secretary Blank.

June 11, 2012

MEMORANDUM FOR THE DEPUTY SECRETARY

FROM: Secretary John Bryson

SUBJECT: Transfer of Duties During Medical Leave of Absence

I notified President Obama this evening that effective immediately I am taking a medical leave of absence so that I can focus all of my attention on resolving the health issues that arose over the weekend.  During the period of my illness, I will not perform the functions and duties of my office.  Therefore, by operation of law, as my first assistant you will act in my stead for the duration of my absence.