Ohio governor instructs state workers to return to offices

OHIO — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed an executive order Tuesday requiring all permanent state employees to return to in-office work by March 17, 2025.

Many state employees began working remotely on March 9, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

While some returned on a full-time or hybrid basis after the state emergency ended on June 18, 2021, remote work has continued for many.

According to the executive order, the state saved millions by reducing leased office space and better utilizing state-owned buildings.

However, the order states that having employees return to physical offices is now in the best interest of Ohio citizens.

The mandate applies to permanent employees of state agencies, boards, and commissions, but some exceptions will be allowed.

These include cases where no reasonable in-office employment is possible, situations certified by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS), or when office space would need to be newly acquired or renovated. Other exemptions may be granted at the discretion of the DAS director.