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NJ State Employees Will Continue to Work From Home
Telework Pilot Program for New Jersey State Employees Extended by the Civil Service Commission
In a significant move towards workplace flexibility, the New Jersey Civil Service Commission (CSC) has approved the extension of its Model Telework Pilot Program for New Jersey State employees through June 30, 2024.
This strategically designed program, initiated by the CSC in April 2022, aimed at rendering New Jersey State competitive with the private sector by attracting top talent through its provision of a flexible work environment.
According to the current administration, the Model Telework Pilot Program has been an astounding success, with multiple accounts of increased productivity and improved state services.
During the Civil Service Commission Meeting on Wednesday, June 7, Acting Chair and Chief Executive Officer of the New Jersey Civil Service Commission, Allison Chris Myers, motioned to prolong the pilot program to facilitate formal rule-making procedures.
Governor Murphy voiced his support, stating, "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.”
The Governor added that the program has facilitated the development of several online services, thus enhancing public service delivery.
Affirming the program’s success, Allison Chris Myers noted that the extension of the Model Telework Pilot was an important step for the State of New Jersey and the Civil Service Commission to serve their employees better. She emphasized the program's role in enhancing work productivity and boosting employee morale.
Myers said, “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.”
The general parameters of the pilot program for State departments and appointing authorities remain unchanged. Key among these is the requirement for all departments and authorities to offer a telework program of no more than two working days per week based on operational needs.
Further, appointing authorities are advised to make available flextime schedules and/or alternate work programs for employees who are not eligible for telework when operational needs allow. Both employees and managers are also required to complete telework training as part of the approval process.
Appointing authorities retain significant discretion in determining telework schedules for eligible employees considering operational needs. Lastly, each department must consult with relevant unions when developing their telework plans.
The extension of the Model Telework Pilot Program reaffirms New Jersey's commitment to modernizing its workplace practices and adapting to the changing dynamics of work culture.
The program's success to date is a testament to the potential of flexible work arrangements in enhancing productivity, improving employee morale, and, ultimately, refining public service delivery.
As the State moves forward, its focus on balancing operational needs and employee well-being sets a precedent for other states to follow.
Emphasizing telework training, open dialogue with unions, and the necessity of a streamlined approval process ensures that while New Jersey adopts the future of work, it remains rooted in the principles of fairness and inclusivity.
