The Governor made an announcement concerning State office building closures today out of concern for safety in response to the winter weather event. This is one of the first such announcements since the Telework Agreement has been in effect, so we can expect some confusion from all involved with its implementation. The relevant language of the Telework Agreement, effective January 2022, can be found here:
8.3. LATE OPENING, EARLY DISMISSAL, AGENCY CLOSURE
8.3.1.If a situation arises at the teleworker's official duty station that interferes with the ability of non-teleworking employees to work at the official duty station (e.g. power failure, weather conditions, lack of heat in the office building; etc.) while the teleworker is working at his /her telework location, the teleworker is not excused from duty for this period of time as he/she would not be affected by these conditions.
8.3.2.In addition, teleworkers may be requested to telework on non-telework days as operational needs dictate or in the event of an emergency (e.g. power outage, flooding/water damage at official duty station etc.). Acceptance of such request shall be at the option of the employee. If you were scheduled to telework on the snow day, then you must continue to telework as scheduled.
For understanding:
Non-essentials: If this was an office day for you, then you DO NOT need to telework today (the agency can request and you can accept or reject).
Non-essentials: If you were scheduled to telework today, you are to continue working a full day or utilize sick/vac/pl.
Essential Workers (Level 1): if it is deemed essential that you physically report to the office despite the weather, then we have language in our contract to cover this situation and you will receive a Comp day. If you are essential but don't need to report to the office but are being asked to telework, then you are expected to telework as needed (clarifying language on this situation will be in the successor A&R contract, which is nearing finalization).