Governor Gavin Newsom has signed an executive order requiring all state agencies and departments that are currently allowing remote work to have employees return to the office for a minimum of four in-person days per week starting July 1. This decision affects a significant portion of California’s workforce, with approximately 95,000 employees still working remotely or in a hybrid capacity. Newsom emphasized the benefits of in-person collaboration, stating it leads to improved service and solutions for Californians.
The decision may escalate tensions between state officials and labor unions, which have opposed previous attempts to limit telework. Additionally, the governor’s order aims to ensure fairness across the state’s workforce, especially for those who have been working in-person throughout the pandemic, such as law enforcement and healthcare staff.
Despite opposition from unions arguing for the benefits of remote work—including increased productivity and employee satisfaction—Newsom has justified his decision based on the need for better alignment and oversight in work schedules. Furthermore, the order includes provisions to facilitate the employment of former federal workers in critical roles, such as firefighting and mental health services. Legal challenges to this order are anticipated.
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