McMaster Caps State Employee Work-From-Home Policy at 2 Days Per Week
COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has signed an executive order standardizing work-from-home policies across all state agencies, limiting telecommuting to a maximum of two days per week.
New Statewide Telecommuting Rules
Issued on September 11, 2025, Executive Order 2025-31 directs the state’s Division of Human Resources to implement uniform procedures for telecommuting. McMaster said the goal is to provide “clarity, consistency, and accountability” for state government operations.
Key provisions include:
- Telecommuting is not a guaranteed benefit. Approval depends on each agency director.
- Policies must be approved by State HR before any employee can telecommute.
- Telecommuting is capped at two days per week and cannot occur on consecutive days like Monday–Tuesday or Thursday–Friday.
- Employees must complete one year of satisfactory service before qualifying.
- Agencies or State HR can revoke telecommuting privileges at any time. Revocation is not subject to the South Carolina Employee Grievance Procedure Act.
Governor’s Rationale
McMaster stressed that remote work policies are designed to improve efficiency and reduce costs, not to accommodate lifestyle preferences.
“It’s important that we have clear, consistent, and accountable policies on telecommuting and remote work for state employees across the board,” McMaster said.
Immediate Effect
The executive order took effect immediately, and state agencies are required to submit revised telecommuting policies for approval.
Do you agree with Governor McMaster’s decision to restrict state employees to two days of telecommuting per week? Share your perspective with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
