Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a significant shift in California’s public sector workforce, requiring state employees to return to in-person work at least four days a week starting July 1, 2025. This new mandate applies to approximately 95,000 state workers currently working remotely, marking a shift from the remote work model that became standard during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The policy aims to improve collaboration, innovation, and accountability within government agencies. Newsom emphasized that face-to-face interactions are crucial to boosting efficiency and addressing critical state challenges, including wildfire management, climate change, and disaster response.
Policy Details and Rationale
Under the new mandate, most state employees will be required to work in-office for four days a week, with one day allowed for remote work. The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) will oversee the implementation, ensuring that agencies comply with the new directive. Newsom stressed that in-person collaboration is essential for strengthening government operations.
“In-person work makes us all stronger—period,” said Newsom. “When we work together, collaboration improves, innovation thrives, and accountability increases.”
Union Response and Concerns
The new mandate has sparked backlash from labor unions, particularly the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 1000, which represents a large segment of California’s state workers. Union leaders argue that the mandate disregards the benefits of remote work, such as improved work-life balance, increased productivity, and reduced commuting costs.
Anica Walls, President of SEIU Local 1000, voiced concerns about the financial and logistical burdens the policy would place on workers, especially those in rural areas. “This mandate forces workers to bear the cost of commuting while ignoring the productivity gains that remote work has provided,” Walls said. She emphasized that flexible remote work arrangements better serve the diverse needs of workers.
In response, Governor Newsom’s office has promised to evaluate requests for exceptions on a case-by-case basis, particularly for employees with special circumstances such as long commutes or caregiving responsibilities.
Adjustments and Flexibility
The state is committed to making adjustments where necessary to ensure that employees who face challenges with the new policy are supported. While the goal is for most state workers to return to in-person work, exceptions will be allowed for employees with compelling reasons.
A Broader Trend in Government and Business
California’s return-to-office mandate reflects a growing trend across both public and private sectors. At the federal level, President Biden has encouraged a return to in-person work, and cities like San Francisco have implemented similar policies for municipal employees. Additionally, many private companies in Silicon Valley and beyond are calling employees back to their offices after a prolonged period of remote work.
For California, bringing workers back into the office is seen as necessary to address complex issues such as climate action, wildfire prevention, and disaster preparedness. Physical presence in government offices is expected to improve decision-making, enhance collaboration, and streamline responses to state needs.
The Future of California’s Workforce
As the July 1 deadline approaches, state agencies are revising their telework policies to comply with the new mandate. While some workers may face challenges adjusting to the new routine, Governor Newsom’s office is confident that the return to in-person work will foster a more engaged and effective workforce.
For many state employees, the return to the office represents an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, collaborate more effectively, and contribute to public service. While the transition will present some difficulties, the policy’s goal is to create a stronger, more productive government.
