CBA Telework Articles

We understand and appreciate the demand to learn more about the newly signed CBA. In an effort to share information, we have outlined the articles in the current CBA that protects telework.

Note: The new CBA is currently being formatted (it has been signed and is in effect.) As soon as it is prepared and uploaded, we will notify you and you can view it here: Collective Bargaining Agreement 

ARTICLE 45. TELEWORK

The Parties agree that a successful telework program is innovative and cost-effective; and benefits the Agency, its employees, and the public by providing increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, greater employee retention, and expanded recruitment opportunities. The Parties also agree that telework will provide continued operation of services during emergency situations, reduced costs for real estate and facility maintenance, and an enhanced public image. The Parties are confident that a robust telework program will afford greater job satisfaction for employees by providing flexibility in managing one’s time and activities. Telework may improve morale by reducing stress in balancing work and home obligations, and also saving both time and money in costly daily commutes. Telework will also promote a cleaner environment, decreased traffic congestion, and decreased pollution and energy consumption. The provisions of the Telework Program will be administered in accordance with law and the Agency Telework Policy, dated January 2023, unless the Parties renegotiate any further policy under Article 2, Effective Date and Duration, Section 2.3, Reopener, of the Agreement.

Article 2 Effective Date and Duration

Section 2.1 Effective Date

Any agreement between the Agency and an exclusive representative shall be subject to approval by the head of the Agency. The head of the Agency shall approve the agreement within thirty (30) days from the date the agreement is executed if the agreement is in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and any other applicable law, rule, or regulation (unless the Agency has granted an exception to the provision). If the head of the Agency does not approve or disapprove the agreement within the thirty (30) day period, the agreement shall take effect. It shall be binding on the Agency and the exclusive representative subject to the provisions of this chapter and any other applicable law, rule, or regulation.

Section 2.2 Renegotiation

Section 2.2.1

This Agreement shall remain in full force and effect for ten (10) years from the date of its signing and shall renew itself automatically each year on its anniversary date. However, either party must give written notice to the other, no more than one hundred twenty (l20) days, but not less than ninety (90) days before the expiration date of this Agreement if it desires to terminate or renegotiate this Agreement. This current Agreement will remain in effect until a new Agreement becomes effective.

Section 2.2.2

The Parties will meet to negotiate the ground rules within sixty (60) days of the moving party’s notice to renegotiate. Proposals for ground rules for the renegotiation of the Agreement will be exchanged at that time.

Section 2.3 Reopener

Either party may propose negotiations during the term of this Agreement to reopen, amend, or modify this Agreement, but such negotiations may be conducted only by mutual consent of the Parties. Such notices to renegotiate must be accompanied by the specific provisions the party wishes to renegotiate.

If the Parties mutually agree to commence negotiations, proposals will be limited to the article or section agreed to be reopened. The Parties will meet to negotiate the amendments or modifications within thirty (30) days. Such negotiations will be conducted in good faith through appropriate representatives as required by law and this Agreement.

Section 2.4 Amendments and Modifications

Unless otherwise agreed by the Parties, this Agreement may only be amended, modified, or renegotiated under the provisions of this Agreement and law.