California Governor Gavin Newsom has issued an executive order requiring state employees to return to the office at least four days a week starting July 1, 2025. The decision aims to enhance collaboration, innovation, and accountability within state agencies. Newsom emphasized that in-person work strengthens the state’s emergency and disaster response capabilities and addresses employment needs. The order allows for telework flexibility on a case-by-case basis, reflecting family-friendly policies and legal obligations.
The directive affects over 224,000 full-time state workers, with more than half already working in person, including peace officers, healthcare workers, and maintenance staff. The governor’s office stated that the return to the office would improve decision-making, mentorship, and oversight of public resources.
Governor Newsom also instructed the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) to streamline hiring processes for former federal employees to fill key roles in firefighting, weather forecasting, and other critical areas.
However, the order has sparked tensions with labor unions representing public employees, who argue that remote work boosts productivity and well-being. Timothy O’Connor, president of the union representing state attorneys, criticized the mandate as sudden and misguided.
Newsom’s previous order in April 2024 required workers to return at least two days a week, citing enhanced efficiency from in-person work. Despite legal challenges, the governor maintains that the new mandate ensures fairness for all state workers.
The order comes amid federal workforce reductions, with California strategically recruiting experienced professionals to fill job openings in various sectors.
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