Governor Gavin Newsom has issued Executive Order N-22-25, marking a significant shift in the state’s approach to remote work for its more than 224,000 full-time state employees. The order reaffirms the administration's commitment to in-person work while acknowledging the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, which transformed workplace expectations.

"IT IS HEREBY ORDERED THAT:

"All agencies and departments subject to my authority that provide telework as an option for employees shall implement a hybrid telework policy with a default minimum of four in-person days per work week, with case-by-case exceptions available... effective July 1, 2025.

-Governor Gavin Newsom, March 3rd, 2025

Key Changes to Telework Policies

Prior to the pandemic, nearly all state employees were expected to work in person five days a week. However, the public health crisis led to a rapid shift toward hybrid and full-time remote work for many employees. Despite this transition, over half of California’s state workforce continued in-person duties throughout the pandemic. This included public safety officers, healthcare professionals, janitorial staff, highway maintenance crews, and customer service representatives.

Citing research on the benefits of in-person collaboration, Governor Newsom's administration implemented a hybrid telework policy in April 2024. This policy required state employees eligible for remote work to report to the office at least two days per week.

Increased Push for In-Person Work

The new executive order reinforces the importance of physical presence in state offices, mirroring trends in the private sector where many companies have started rolling back remote work policies.

"Enhanced collaboration, cohesion, creativity, and communication are critical to the success of public service," the order states, emphasizing that mentorship opportunities, supervision, and accountability improve with in-person interactions.

Several leading private-sector employers have tightened their remote work policies in recent months, some even returning to full-time in-person work. The governor’s latest directive aligns California’s public sector with this broader trend.

What This Means for State Workers

The executive order does not mandate an immediate return to five-day office schedules but signals a continued gradual shift toward more in-person engagement. It also leaves room for agency-specific adjustments while underscoring the expectation that state workers contribute to a productive and collaborative office culture.

While telework will remain an option for some employees, the state is now prioritizing increased physical presence in government offices to maintain efficiency and enhance service delivery.

The governor’s office is expected to provide further guidance and implementation plans for agencies and employees affected by the change.

Looking Ahead

With Executive Order N-22-25, Governor Newsom aims to balance flexibility with the benefits of in-person work while ensuring that state services operate at full capacity. The transition period will likely see adjustments based on feedback from employees and department heads.

For state workers who have settled into a remote work routine, the new directive may require significant adjustments. However, the administration maintains that this move will ultimately strengthen California’s public sector workforce and improve government service efficiency.