Most state workers in Utah are shifting to 4-day week with announcement of the ‘Working 4 Utah’ initiative, extending state government service hours from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday beginning the first week of August. State administrative offices will be closed on Fridays but essential public services will remain open that already run on extended hours and during the weekends. Utah Governor Jon Huntsman stated that
As we go forward with this initiative, we will conserve energy, save money, improve our air quality, and enhance customer service…. We live in a dynamic, ever-changing environment, and it’s crucial that we take a serious look at how we can adapt and maintain our state’s unparalleled quality of life.
Working 4 Utah cost saving analysis examined the impact of moving from five 8-hour days to four 10-hour days in terms of Reduction in Energy use for Government Buildings; Fuel Savings from less Commuting; Employee Financial Savings; and Emission Reductions.
Workforce Management notes that the Gas Price Could Revolutionize U.S. Workplace. We have posted on Energy Expenses And Gas Prices Motivate Employers To Move To Four Day Workweek: What Are The Legal Issues? and FLSA causes Global Warming: Sixteen other Reasons to Consider a 4-day Work Week. Several Pennsylvania Counties and municipalities are mulling four day workweeks, including Berks County, Centre County, York County, and BEA School District. But, Warren County has reportedly rejected the idea. Give us your thoughts on the subject: