Telework pilot extended for state workers until 2024

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This week, the New Jersey Civil Service Commission (CSC) approved a motion to extend the Model Telework Pilot Program for state employees until June 30, 2024.

The program, established in April 2022, offered the option for state employees to work from home as part of an effort to keep New Jersey competitive with the private sector in attracting top talent by providing flexibility, while still maintaining essential services and responding to constituent needs.

Officials say the pilot has been positive and the workforce has demonstrated an ability to complete their tasks from home, noting that a number of divisions throughout the state saw increased employee productivity after the program was implemented.

The parameters of the program, which will remain the same, include:

• All departments and authorities are required to offer a telework program of no more than two working days per week based on operational need.
• Appointing authorities should make available flextime schedules and/or alternate work programs for employees who are not eligible for telework when operational needs allow.
• Employees are required to engage in an application process to determine eligibility. Both employees and managers are required to complete telework training as part of the approval process.
• Significant discretion shall be given to appointing authorities to consider operational needs when determining telework schedules for eligible employees.
• Each department is required to consult with relevant unions when developing their telework plan.

Based on the success of the pilot, Allison Chris Myers, acting chair and chief executive officer of the NJCSC, this week motioned to extend and continue the program.

“We have not only witnessed an increase in work productivity from participants, but also a boost in employee morale,” said Myers. “The COVID-19 pandemic brought on many dramatic changes in the landscape of how and where we work. By extending the Model Telework Pilot Program, we are demonstrating how important it is to continue to adapt to these changes in order to attract and retain qualified state workers.”

“By all accounts, our pilot telework program has been successful in accelerating the modernization of state government to reflect the reality of the workplace today,” said Gov. Phil Murphy. “This experience has enhanced efficiencies and accelerated the development of many online services to improve the way we ultimately serve the public.”