Most state workers must return to the office at least three days a week beginning December 1 under remote working rules outlined on Thursday.
Gov. Phil Scott has been hinting for weeks that the state was developing rules about when employees could work from home, something that became commonplace during the pandemic.
Many state employees who interact with the public returned to regular office hours long ago. But a large number have continued to enjoy flexible working conditions that have allowed them to work from home.
The new hybrid work policy will require most employees to return to three days of work in the office. Scott has said having employees work in an office setting has benefits.
“This approach will provide a consistent balance across agencies and departments and increase interactions between teams, and result in more effective collaboration, communication, and connection,” spokeswoman Amanda Wheeler wrote in an email.
Administration Secretary Sarah Clark acknowledged in an email to employees that many of them like the flexibility to work remotely. She also noted that “Vermonters value access to their government, a visible presence in the communities we serve, and insight into how we work collectively in service to them.”
Representatives of state employee unions have questioned the motives for the change. Business owners in Montpelier have cited remote working as impacting their bottom line.
The goal of the change was to strike the right balance.
“There is no path that will make everyone happy,” Clark noted.
At times, workers may be required to work in the office more than three days or might be exempted from the requirement. A task force has been formed to outline such exemptions.