Press Release - Governor Kaine Announces Creation of Office of Telework Promotion and Broadband Assistance
Press Release - Governor Kaine Announces Creation of Office of Telework Promotion and Broadband Assistance
- Office to focus on increased adoption of broadband and telework -
Governor Timothy M. Kaine today signed Executive Order 35, creating an Office of Telework Promotion and Broadband Assistance within the Office of the Secretary of Technology. The Office will encourage and promote telework activities for public and private employers, and work to advance innovative models that expedite the deployment of "last-mile" broadband technologies throughout the Commonwealth. The Governor signed the Executive Order at the 2006 Commonwealth of Virginia Innovative Technology Symposium held in Roanoke.
"Telework is a family-friendly, business-friendly public policy that helps us recruit and retain a high-quality workforce in a competitive job market," Governor Kaine said. "It also protects environmental quality and promotes energy conservation by reducing traffic congestion and vehicle emissions. Telework also allows a better balance between work and family. For all of these reasons, it is important for state government to support public and private sector efforts to promote widespread adoption of telework."
With portable computers, personal digital technology, and high speed telecommunications links, many employees today can work almost anywhere at least some of the time. The Virginia General Assembly has set a goal of shifting a significant number of jobs into alternative work schedules by 2010, which will involve expanded use of telework. State agencies are being surveyed to gather baseline data on the amount of telework currently conducted.
The Office will also actively promote the adoption and deployment of affordable broadband services throughout the Commonwealth. "Equal and affordable access to broadband telecommunication services is critical," added Bristol State Senator William Wampler. "It is the only way that workers throughout the Commonwealth can participate in enhanced economic development opportunities such as teleworking."
Fairfax County Delegate James M. Scott echoed the comments made by both Governor Kaine and Senator Wampler, adding "Telework cuts air pollution, reduces vehicle miles and makes employees happy. State government should lead the way."
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Gerry Connolly praised the Governor's actions, noting that "Telework is an effective solution for reducing peak traffic demand and air pollution. It provides employees with an alternative to commuting that enhances productivity and protects the environment."
http://www.governor.virginia.gov/MediaRelations/NewsReleases/viewRelease.cfm?id=235