Board passes first reading of family‑friendly workplace ordinance giving employees right to request flexible arrangements

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors on Tuesday passed on first reading an ordinance that would let employees request flexible working arrangements from their employers — such as part‑time schedules, telecommuting, shift swaps or job‑sharing — and requires a process for employers to consider such requests.

Sponsors and supporters described the measure as the first major city ordinance of its kind in the United States intended to reduce barriers for working parents, caregivers and others with scheduling needs. “It is my hope today that San Francisco will be the first city in the country to create and establish the right for employees to request flexible working arrangements,” President Chu said when introducing the item, and he thanked numerous advocacy organizations and business partners who helped craft the legislation.

The ordinance allows employers to deny a request if it would impose a measurable additional cost on the business. Supporters cited experience in nations including Britain, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand and noted prior federal proposals; sponsors also said the city will conduct employer outreach and education through the Department on the Status of Women, the Office of Labor Standards Enforcement and the Office of Small Business.

Supervisor Mar and others stressed the ordinance’s potential to support working families across San Francisco and noted related city work on predictable scheduling and other measures. The board took the “same house, same call” on first reading and recorded the ordinance as passing on first reading.

The ordinance will return for a second reading and final passage in a subsequent meeting; sponsors said they will continue outreach to employers and plan additional work on schedule predictability.