Governor Newsom’s return-to-office (RTO) mandate isn’t about improving services – it’s a shortsighted decision that disregards what’s best for workers and the state. We’ve proven that remote and hybrid work increase productivity, save taxpayers millions, and help recruit and retain talent. Yet, instead of building on these successes, the administration is pushing unnecessary commutes that disrupt workers’ lives.
That’s why we’ve taken legal action – because this mandate violates our collective bargaining rights under the Dills Act and disregards our contract. The state cannot impose changes without bargaining, and we are challenging this unlawful action.
Even the state’s own budget reports contradict the need for this mandate. In 2022, California eliminated 767,000 square feet of office space, saving $22.5 million per year due to reduced in-office staffing. That same report projected that expanding telework could save the state $85 million annually over three years. Additionally, a 2023 Government Accountability Office report found that telework expands the hiring pool and helps fill vacancies – something every state agency is struggling with. Read links to these reports on our website and stay updated on our latest efforts at seiu1000.org/RTO.
And while we fight RTO, we’re also fighting to secure our full 4% raise. State workers shouldn’t be left in limbo – we need certainty about our pay. We won’t back down until every state worker gets the full 4% we deserve. Visit seiu1000.org/RTO to take action and stay involved.
This Is Why Membership Matters
We win these fights because members stand together. The more of us who join, the stronger our voice. Together, we win!