Virginia contemplates four-day work week for State Employees
By Krystle Weeks | Tuesday, September 14th, 2010 | PolicyIn a move that could save the Commonwealth of Virginia millions of dollars, a proposal is being considered that would allow state employees to have a day off work on Fridays. This proposal came at the recommendation of the Governor Bob McDonnell’s Reform and Restructuring Commission.
The Washington Post reports that state employees would work four ten hour days, instead of the typical five eight hour day schedule. The proposed schedule would not apply to law enforcement, museum workers, public health employees, and those in higher education. The proposal would help cut down on energy costs and cutting back on overtime pay.
Currently, the Virginia Forestry Department in Charlottesville participates in the four-day workweek and has saved $31,223 in costs and employees have considered it a benefit to participate in this program. Similarly, the four-hour workweek has been widely popular in Utah, where the state saved $1 million. There has been no loss in wages due to this move and everyone is able to maintain their salaries.
While this could generate more money for the Commonwealth’s budget, there are some critics who view this proposal in negative light, as services to urban areas in the Commonwealth might be harder to access.
Only time will tell if this proposal will generate the results, but it is a step in the right direction towards saving the Commonwealth money.
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About the author
Growing up in Maryland typically does not yield a Republican. Fortunately, Krystle Weeks was one of the lucky few booted to the Commonwealth for her staunch conservative views. From an early age, she has been debating politics, and since 2006, she has been involved here in the Commonwealth helping Republican candidates to victory. Aside from politics, Krystle is a runner and a dynamite cook. You can email her here. Krystle also blogs at Crystal Clear Conservative and Charm Offensive Cooking.
Comments
4 Responses to "Virginia contemplates four-day work week for State Employees"
Sounds like a positive move to me…. What is the downside?
I think this is a great idea – 10 hour days mean services might actually be available to people who work.
Brian: There is an upside, you’re right. And I’m sure some state employees would really like the idea. I work a four-day week and I really like it. On the other hand, for folks with small kids, it might seriously screw up day care arrangements. That’s not a deal killer, but it’s something to think about.
William,
The opponents of the four-day workweek would argue that this would limit the services to those in urban areas.
As far as I am concerned, the four-day workweek would allow for extended hours of operation, which would enable people to have more access to the services.
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