Federal Managers Association
Press Release
- FMA APPLAUDS INTRODUCTION OF THE TELEWORK METRICS AND COST SAVINGS ACT - June 9, 2022
Alexandria, VA – On June 7, Reps. Gerry Connolly (D-VA) and John Sarbanes (D-MD) introduced the Telework Metrics and Cost Savings Act (H.R. 7951). The Federal Managers Association (FMA) endorsed the legislation as an asset to the federal workforce. FMA National President Craig Carter made the following comments upon introduction of H.R. 7951:
“FMA is proud to endorse the Telework Metrics and Cost Savings Act as a commonsense approach to modernize the federal government’s telework programs, which was last significantly updated by the Telework Enhancement Act of 2010. Since that time, we have seen monumental advancements in technology and new realities as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Telework and remote work are viable, sustainable options for many jobs across the federal workforce, and H.R. 7951 would help strengthen these options based on lessons learned in recent years.
“We recognize there will always be jobs where telework is simply not an option. You cannot turn a screwdriver on an aircraft carrier from your couch in your living room. However, given the flexibilities technology allows us, it is critical that the federal government adapt and take advantage of the opportunities that telework provides, where possible.
“Managers have often been blamed for impeding implementation of telework among their employees, and this could be remedied with managerial training on how to best supervise and improve the productivity of teleworkers. FMA strongly supports provisions in H.R. 7951 that help develop supervisor and manager training on telework and train managers and supervisors on how to effectively engage teleworking employees. We also support the clarification of the definition of telework and the focus on expanding telework access to military spouses.
“FMA supports the goals of the Telework Metrics and Cost Savings Act and will work to see it passed into law.”