• Nicholas Chan
• Communications Director, Office of Assemblymember Alex Lee
• (916) 319-2392
• [email protected]

Assemblymember Alex Lee introduced legislation to support state workers and recognize the proven benefits of telework for both California employees and taxpayers. AB 1729 prioritizes transparency for public employees by requiring clear telework policies across state agencies.

Telework generates significant cost savings and positive environmental impacts, while preserving the quality of services delivered by state workers. It could save hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars annually by reducing office space by roughly 30%. Telework also advances California's net-zero emission goals and mitigates an estimated 393,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions by eliminating lengthy commutes.

"AB 1729 empowers and supports our state workers by ensuring transparency about their agency's telework policy," said Assemblymember Lee. "The State Auditor has shown that telework could save upwards of $225 million annually, while significantly reducing carbon emissions. These environmental benefits and cost savings directly benefit the public. As such, AB 1729 will pave the way for increased transparency of state agencies' telework policies."

The bill requires state agencies to provide written justification detailing how in-person work aligns with their mission and operational needs. It also establishes a dashboard about the benefits of state telework programs, including annual cost savings, reduced commute, as well as cuts in emissions and energy use.

The bill is being advanced in partnership with a coalition of labor unions representing state employees, including AFSCME 2620, CAPS-UAW Local 1115, CASE, PECG, and SEIU Local 1000.

The coalition of supporters for AB 1729 released the following statements:

"Telework works for workers, for taxpayers, and for California," said Anica Walls, President of SEIU Local 1000 and a representative of the union coalition. "State workers proved that we can deliver high-quality public services while saving money and reducing emissions. This bill ensures state policy is guided by evidence, not outdated assumptions."

"CASE members (attorneys, administrative law judges, hearing officers, and deputy labor commissioners) protect Californians' rights and public resources every day," said Talene Ghazarian, President of CASE. "Telework flexibility helps the State retain expertise, operate more efficiently, and deliver better outcomes for the public at lower cost."

"Telework is the way forward for the state civil service: promoting family-friendly work environments, maximizing efficient use of taxpayer dollars, and ensuring sound environmental policy. Particularly as California faces tough questions about financial priorities in the budget, supporting telework should be clear-cut: save taxpayer dollars and promote a better workforce," said Jacqueline Tkac, President of CAPS-UAW Local 1115.

"California can deliver a more efficient government and improve quality of life for the public by embracing telework. Reducing traffic congestion cuts commute times and improves roadway safety. Meanwhile, telework allows state workers to focus on what matters most-serving everyday Californians. It's a policy that benefits everyone," said Ferdinand de la Cruz, President of PECG.

"AFSCME Local 2620 supports coalition efforts to solidify telework as a permanent solution for our members. Telework has helped many of our members and we stand with our coalition. We support Mr. Lee's bill to address our members' concerns," said Juan Del Toro, President of AFSCME Local 2620.