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Tell Rutgers: Do Not End Expanded Telecommuting

On June 30, our current telecommuting arrangement expires. We are writing to demand the continuation of expanded telecommuting or “telework” until we sign our next contract, be that before or after June 30, 2022. The perfect storm of a lingering pandemic, historically high fuel prices, inflation, and the climate crisis tell us that this is the time for Rutgers to take bold steps towards developing a 21st Century workplace and expanding telework options for all staff in alignment with the Rutgers Climate Action Plan and the Rutgers Academic Master Plan. URA-AFT has been negotiating and advocating for expanded telecommuting options since 2007. Over and over we have heard “we’re not ready.” In March 2020, everything changed and Rutgers management realized that telework was essential to University operations. Under pressure, and without negotiating, management sent thousands of us home to work remotely. Throughout the COVID-19 global pandemic, the resilience and flexibility of staff have ensured that Rutgers has maintained excellence in research, teaching, and service. In the midst of so much loss and uncertainty, we reimagined work, productivity, and work-life balance.

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