Last week, the House of Representatives and the Senate introduced the Telework Improvements Act of 2009 – a bill aimed at improving Telework in the Federal government. Representatives Sarbanes (D-MD), Connolly (D-VA), and Wolf (R-VA) introduced the Telework Improvements Act of 2009 in the House of Representatives. Senators Akaka (D-HI) and Voinovich (R-OH) introduced the companion bill in the Senate. This marks the first time that both the Senate and House have introduced simultaneous bills. This will be huge for those who work in the Federal Government and are looking to Telework.

Most interesting is that the legislation calls on agencies to create Telework programs that allow employees to telecommute at least 20% of their hours worked every 2 administrative work weeks. This further supports the overall mandate that allows for all inclusive measures regarding Telework instead of “exclusive” benefits.

Many within the Federal government understand the benefits and need for Telecommuting and Remote Work. It will be interesting to see how they go about developing and training on the program. That is going to be the key. If the bill goes through, but implementation fails, it is going to give Telework a very bad name. That can’t happen as there are already too many managers who feel, “Telework is just simply not for us.” I hope the decision makers work with Telecommuting Program Expert Consultants to determine the best course forward.

We’ll see what happens, but be certain to check back here for more updates!

Brandon Dempsey
SuiteCommute
1-888-878-4832
Brandon@suitecommute.com