The union proposed a full-time telework standard unless the state can show a job can’t be done remotely.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California state employees are heading back to the bargaining table, pushing a 100% full-time telework standard.

SEIU Local 1000, the union representing nearly 100,000 state workers, said negotiations with the state resumed this week in Sacramento over future telework rules. The talks come ahead of a July deadline, when a temporary return-to-office extension expires.

Union leaders are pushing for stronger remote work protections as employees face a directive from Governor Gavin Newsom requiring many to work in person four days a week.

“The current administration’s attempt to incrementally force civil service workers back into office buildings four days a week after years of successful remote-work arrangements has energized our membership to fight back like no other issue has in recent memory,” said Susan Rodriguez, Chief Negotiator for SEIU Local 1000.

The union proposed a full-time telework standard unless the state can show a job can’t be done remotely. The proposal also includes free parking for workers who report in person and stipends for workers. These include:

 A $25 Daily Commuter Stipend for commuters who work or live in areas where public transit isn’t readily available A $500 High-Crime Worksite Stipend for employees assigned to high-crime areasA $25 Daily Investment Stipend for workers required to be in the office to support downtown economies

According to the union, a 2025 state audit found expanded telework could save taxpayers up to $225 million a year by reducing office space if employees telework three or more days per week.

The union is negotiating with the state’s human resources department, CalHR, which provided ABC10 with the following statement on the negotiations:

“CalHR respects the confidentiality of the bargaining process and does not speak on ongoing negotiations. CalHR looks forward to bargaining in good faith with SEIU in the weeks ahead,” said Angela Musallam, spokesperson for CalHR.

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