Commissioner Baskigy highlights remote work benefits for Vermont state employees

The Senate Government Operations meeting held on March 20, 2025, at 2:30 PM in Vermont focused on various topics related to state government operations, particularly in the realm of human resources and employee management.

The meeting commenced with a light-hearted observation about a heart-shaped arrangement made from DigSafe flags on the Statehouse lawn, symbolizing community support. This was followed by a welcome to Beth Baskigy, the Human Resources Commissioner, who has served since 2017. Baskigy expressed her commitment to the role and highlighted the dedication of her team in managing human resources for the state.

Baskigy reported that the Department of Human Resources (DHR) currently employs approximately 106 staff members. Over her tenure, the department has seen an increase in positions, particularly in response to the changing work environment post-pandemic. She noted that the DHR had absorbed additional roles from other units and added eight new positions two years ago to address the increased administrative workload due to higher employee turnover.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the state’s telework policy, which was established in 2012 but gained prominence during the pandemic. Baskigy indicated that many employees continue to work remotely, with arrangements tailored to individual needs and supervisor agreements. She emphasized that telework has become a critical factor in attracting new talent, as many prospective employees now expect remote work options.

The meeting concluded with Baskigy underscoring the importance of adapting to the evolving workforce landscape in Vermont, where attracting and retaining employees is increasingly challenging due to demographic shifts. The discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts of the DHR to enhance employee engagement and operational efficiency in state government.