HB1326

House Bill 1326 creates the Uniform Remote Work Policy Act to standardize telework guidelines across various Arkansas state agencies. The bill mandates that state agencies establish formal policies, eligibility criteria, and training for remote work arrangements. It explicitly excludes certain entities, such as the Department of Transportation, institutions of higher education, and constitutional offices from these requirements. Agencies are required to implement written agreements with participating employees that cover performance standards, equipment usage, and data security. Additionally, the bill requires agencies to annually report to the legislature on the status, participation rates, and impact of their remote work programs on productivity, retention, and operational costs. The legislation emphasizes that remote work must not diminish agency performance or operational capabilities.