Senators Unveil Legislation to Restrict Federal Telework, Citing Need for In-Person Engagement

In a move that underscores the ongoing debate over the future of work in the United States, Senators Mitt Romney (R-UT) and Joe Manchin (D-WV) have co-sponsored the Back to Work Act, a bipartisan initiative aimed at reshaping telework policies within the federal government. This legislative effort seeks to significantly modify the existing framework for federal employees’ telework arrangements, emphasizing the importance of in-person work.

At the heart of the proposed bill is a mandate that would compel federal employees to spend a minimum of 60 work hours within each pay period at their official duty station, effectively limiting telework to a maximum of 40 work days per pay period. This provision introduces a notable shift from the current telework practices adopted widely in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, aligning with the senators’ belief in the value of direct, on-site engagement.

Recognizing the diversity of roles and requirements across the federal workforce, the legislation does allow for certain exceptions. These exceptions are specifically designed to accommodate employees in specialized roles that may inherently require flexibility, as well as military and law enforcement spouses, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by these groups.

The Back to Work Act also seeks to establish a framework for greater oversight and accountability in telework arrangements. Under the proposed regulations, agencies would be tasked with conducting annual reviews of telework agreements, a process aimed at ensuring that such arrangements are justified and do not impede productivity. Furthermore, these agencies would be required to report to Congress on the impacts of telework, providing lawmakers with insights into the effectiveness and ramifications of remote work policies.

As the nation continues to navigate the post-pandemic landscape, the introduction of the Back to Work Act marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing discussion about the balance between remote and in-person work. By proposing strict limits on telework, Senators Romney and Manchin are advocating for a return to pre-pandemic normals, while still accommodating the evolving nature of the modern workplace.”