In-person mandate starts today for state workers
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Illustration: Shoshana Gordon/Axios
Most state government employees are back downtown today as Gov. Mike DeWine's executive order mandating a full-time return to offices takes effect.
Why it matters: It's another major sign of society shifting away from remote work for the everyday employee.
- While downtown businesses welcome new foot traffic, many workers are frustrated when they lose the convenience and cost savings of working from home.
Reality check: The number of affected employees is less than you may expect, so major traffic snarls and a Capitol Square revival aren't necessarily guaranteed.
By the numbers: Of 44,000 total workers under DeWine's authority, 65% (28,600) were already working in person before the executive order, Department of Administrative Services spokesperson J.C. Benton tells Axios.
- Another 25% (11,000) worked hybrid schedules, meaning their downtown time will increase.
- Just 10% of workers (4,400) were fully remote before DeWine's order.
Caveat: There may not be enough office space for everybody. Since 2020, the state has sold and consolidated enough office space to save $15 million annually, Benton says.
- The order doesn't require state agencies to obtain new office space to accommodate all their workers in person, but rather to maximize use of current spaces.
Between the lines: Deciding who returns is ultimately up to each agency and won't be tracked.
- Agencies can "grant exceptions they deem necessary," per the order.
Friction point: Ohio's largest union representing state workers filed a grievance over the change, alleging a contract violation and asking to negotiate the return-to-office terms. The state denied the request.
The big picture: DeWine's order came two weeks after President Trump mandated a return to offices for federal employees "as soon as practicable."
- Other states, including California, Indiana and Texas, are following suit.
- Colorado's government is taking the opposite approach and still working to reduce its physical office space, Axios Denver reports.
Major private employers are making similar moves to order workers back, including JPMorganChase, Nationwide, Wendy's and AEP locally.
- As of 2023, the most recent census data, about 17% of Columbus metro area workers were remote, higher than the national average of 14%.
What we're watching: It'll take time to assess how the shift in working arrangements will impact downtown's ever-changing landscape.
- Experts told Axios' Emily Peck that Trump's order would probably lead to a talent exodus.