Over the past four years, California state employees have demonstrated that remote work is not only feasible but also highly productive. (DGS CA State Worker Savings Teleworking Statistics)

The shift to remote work during the pandemic has yielded numerous benefits:

• Fosters a more diverse and inclusive work environment by opening up previously unviable jobs for people with disabilities/who are immunocompromised. (Forbes)
• Promotes geographic equity, allowing the state to hire from a wider pool, not limited by proximity to state offices.
• $22.5 million in taxpayer savings from relinquished office leases. (CalMatters)
• Reduced traffic congestion, air pollution and carbon emissions - an estimated 20,206 metric tons of CO2 avoided in one month (DGS Telework Statistics) - a key factor in California’s environmental policy.
• Technological advancements enable effective collaboration without the need for physical proximity.
• Remote workers are 13% more productive than their in-office counterparts according to a study by Stanford University. (Bloom et al., 2015).
• Reduced commuting time/cost and office-related costs.
• Enhanced work-life balance and flexibility.

However, the drive to return to office-based work risks undermining these benefits and does not account for:

• The unique circumstances and needs of people with disabilities and those that are immunocompromised. 
• Increased exposure to illnesses like COVID-19.
• Inadequate office space and equipment to support workers and their ergonomic needs that can’t be mitigated due to budget deficits.
• The potential for in-office harassment and distractions.
• Increased financial costs for state workers related to: commuting expenses (fuel/increased car maintenance), parking, pre/post-work childcare, office needs, etc.
• Increased traffic congestion and air pollution. 

To safeguard the option of 100% remote work and prevent a regression to less equitable and less environmentally friendly practices, we urge decision-makers to maintain the 5-day per week remote work option for state employees. The RTO Mandate Initiatives disregards the well-being of state employees and the demonstrated success and benefits of telework in order to prioritize commercial real estate interests and outdated ideas. It also goes against Governor Newsom’s prior calling for telework to be a permanent cost-savings efficiency measure. (Gov. Tech Industry Insider)

We will not stand for decisions that favor the interests of a select few over the collective good. Sign this petition to oppose mandatory RTO and allow California State workers to continue to remotely provide excellent service to Californians.