Minnesota Democratic Gov. Tim Walz announced Tuesday that state employees must return to in-person work for at least 50% of their scheduled shifts. The policy, effective June 1, includes an exemption for employees living more than 75 miles from their primary workplace.
Walz emphasized that the move will enhance collaboration and strengthen workplace culture. His administration also highlighted the economic benefits of increased foot traffic in downtown St. Paul and other office districts.
The policy follows a broader trend of state and federal governments pushing for a return to in-person work. Former President Donald Trump issued an executive order on his first day back in office, requiring all federal employees to terminate remote work arrangements and return to full-time, in-person work at their designated duty stations. The move aligns with Trump’s focus on reducing unnecessary government spending. Business leaders like Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy have publicly supported the shift, arguing that remote work in government is an unjustified COVID-era privilege.
Other states are also adopting similar policies. Ohio Republican Gov. Mike DeWine mandated full-time in-person work for state employees as of March 17. Before the order, 35% of Ohio state employees were working remotely or on hybrid schedules. Meanwhile, California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a directive requiring state employees to work in-person four days a week starting July 1. Newsom stated that in-person work improves collaboration, innovation, and accountability, ultimately leading to better public service.
With both Republican and Democratic governors implementing return-to-office mandates, the trend signals a shift away from the pandemic-era remote work model. The policies aim to enhance productivity, strengthen workplace environments, and bolster local economies.
