Assembly requires state agencies to adopt telework policies; members debate impacts on performance and Albany economy

The Assembly passed legislation directing each state agency to establish a policy or program allowing employees to perform all or part of their duties through telework "to the maximum extent possible without a decline in employee performance." Sponsor Assemblymember Jenifer Rosic said the requirement is intended to help agencies recruit and retain talent; she noted the bill leaves each agency latitude to determine which positions and duties are suitable for telework.

Members asked detailed questions about implementation. Lawmakers pressed whether the mandate would apply to all job titles, whether agency policies would be subject to external review, and whether the word "shall" could be softened to "may" to reduce perceived obligation. Rosic said agencies could exclude positions and that collective bargaining status would limit applicability; she cited the Office of Information Technology Services (ITS) as an existing model in which workers apply annually and a coordinator oversees implementation.

Several members raised local economic concerns. Critics asked whether expanded telework might undermine downtown revitalization efforts in Albany (a referenced $400 million revitalization proposal was cited during floor debate) and harm small businesses that rely on in‑person state workers. Supporters argued telework is an industry standard and helps fill tens of thousands of vacancies across state government.

The bill establishes that each agency must designate a telework coordinator to oversee the program; the legislation does not prescribe grievance or review procedures but sponsors said existing agency processes (and collective bargaining where applicable) would apply. The final reading stated the act "shall take effect on the ninetieth day." The roll call recorded passage: "Ayes 126, Noes 18."