# California state employee remote work legislation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/california-state-employee-remote-work-legislation
> Updated: 2026-08-29T04:11:04.000Z. Sources: 16. Developments: 2.

Assembly Bill 1729, a measure intended to expand work-from-home options for California state employees, has passed the state Legislature and reached Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk. 

The bill passed the Senate with a 31-6 vote and the Assembly with a 67-7 vote. If signed, the legislation would require the state to develop telework plans for appropriate positions and mandate that state agencies provide explanations if they require employees to work in person when remote options are available. 

The proposal faces an uncertain future due to Governor Newsom’s previous defense of a directive requiring most remote state workers to return to the office four days a week, citing the need for improved collaboration and the prevention of social isolation. Supporters of the bill argue that increased telework could reduce state spending on office space and decrease traffic congestion.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-29: California remote work bill reaches Governor Newsom's desk

California's Assembly Bill 1729, which would expand remote work options for state employees, has reached Governor Gavin Newsom's desk following bipartisan legislative approval.

13 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/california-remote-work-bill-reaches-governor-newsoms-desk

### 2026-08-24: Gavin Newsom signs California’s ‘Stop Nick Shirley Act’ into law

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2624, expanding the ‘Safe at Home’ program to nonprofit employees serving those in the immigration system.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gavin-newsom-signs-californias-stop-nick-shirley-act-into-law

---
Cite as: California state employee remote work legislation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/california-state-employee-remote-work-legislation