AB 1729 Senate/Governor Support Letter
AB 1729, introduced by Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-Fremont), would protect state workers' right to telework. California's hybrid telework program was a proven success: it kept cars off the road, reduced carbon emissions, saved money, and supported family-friendly working conditions for state employees. It also helped California achieve our climate goals by attracting and retaining great staff in our environmental and public health programs.
But as of July 1, state workers were forced to give up telework rights under Governor Gavin Newsom's Return to Office order. AB 1729 would give state agencies the authority to formulate their own telework policies while also implementing important accountability and transparency measures. AB 1729 sailed through the Assembly, but now needs a 2/3 majority in the Senate--and a signature from Governor Newsom--to become law.
This is a great opportunity for the environmental movement to show true solidarity with workers AND support a concrete emissions reduction policy. Common-sense telework protections will reduce traffic and carbon emissions, save money, and keep great people working for the State of California to clean up our air and water, protect our wildlife, and support public health--a win for everyone!
Read more analysis of this bill from an air resource engineer and union member!
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