OPM releases updated telework guidance

By

Tony Ware

Leaders from Palo Alto Networks argue that the remote work demands we are encountering are nothing like we’ve ever seen.

The Office of Personnel Management released an addendum to its existing telework guidance focused on employees with caregiving responsibilities. 

Recognizing the need for flexibility to maintain a healthy work-life balance and improve the morale of the federal workforce, OPM issued policy clarifications in December to assist employees with minor children and/or adult dependents in fulfilling both personal responsibilities and agency mission requirements.

Circumstances supported include reducing commute time and absences for dependent care; elder care; following childbirth, adoption or foster care; and for nursing mothers. The guidance addresses the short-term flexibilities available as employees establish arrangements, as well as the conduct, communication and performance management expected following a telework agreement.

Links to more extensive case-specific handbooks and various legal authorities are collated in the fact sheets.