Supporting Your Transition Back to the Office – Updated for 2026
The governor issued an executive order that required state employees to return to the office at least four days per week. Originally taking effect by July 1, 2025, it has been postponed to July 1, 2026. This list of state employee benefits and resources can help you prepare.
Explore each section below to find resources that help you prepare ahead, settle back into the office and stay connected to the support available to you.
1. Preparing Ahead of Time
Commuting and Transportation
- Explore the Bicycle, Mass Transit and Vanpool Commute Programs. These incentives support your commute.
- Review the Department of General Services (DGS) state employee parking and transportation map. If possible, register early to secure your parking spot.
- Check your department’s commute guidance. This includes subsidized rates and online parking lotteries for drivers in downtown Sacramento.
- You may not have access to state parking spaces or a department-sponsored parking program. If so, contact your departmental personnel office to learn about the Pre-Tax Parking Reimbursement Account Program.
Childcare Resources and Cost Savings
- Use Employee Assistance Program (Whole You) Work-Life Services. These can help with time management, finding childcare and balancing work-life demands.
- Explore the Employee Assistance Program (Whole You) Discount Center (Powered by Lifemart). Save money on child and elder care, care purchases and services, fitness centers and more.
Leave Benefits and Scheduling
- Review available leave benefits and flexible work arrangements with your supervisor. This can help you plan your return.
Health and Wellbeing
- Contact your health, dental and vision plans to find providers near your workplace.
- Schedule annual checkups and preventive exams for yourself and your family. This helps to prioritize their wellbeing during the RTO transition.
Training Opportunities
- Register for change management and wellbeing classes through CalLearns. Courses include:
- Blueprint for a Changing Workplace
- Coping with Change
- Effectively Managing Disability Related & Religious Reasonable Accommodations (for RA Coordinators and EEO Audience)
- Empathetic Leadership
- Interpersonal Skills
- Organizing and Prioritizing for Success
- Refreshing your Skills as a Leader
- Stress Management
2. Once You’re Back in the Office
Employee Wellbeing and Support
- Visit the Employee Wellness Program (Live Well). Join wellness activities, watch desk stretch videos and find mindfulness resources and learn how to better manage stress.
- Connect with Employee Assistance Program (Whole You) Wellbeing Coaching and Counseling services. These support stress management and workplace adjustment.
Employee Engagement and Workplace Culture
- Explore the Statewide Engagement Program (You Matter). They provide tools to boost employee engagement and morale. Supervisors and managers can find additional benefits resources.
- Review the DEIA Psychological Safety Guide. Find ideas to create an inclusive, supportive workplace environment.
- Join on-site social or professional development events to build stronger workplace relationships.
Health and Safety
- Ask your supervisor or departmental personnel office to schedule an ergonomic workstation assessment.
- Stay informed about any on-site safety protocols and resources offered by your department.
3. Stay Informed and Get Support
- Annual Open Enrollment: Update your benefits during Open Enrollment (usually September/October). Make sure your benefits meet your family’s needs. Changes made during this period take effect Jan. 1, 2027.
- For questions or assistance: Contact your departmental personnel office. Also, check department’s communications and intranet pages for specific guidance.
- Bookmark this page and check back often for updates.
