Newsom Disputes Audit That Found Remote Work Could Save California $225 Million a Year

The audit overlooks the benefits of in-person work, the governor’s office said. In March, Newsom ordered workers back to the office four days a week.

Gov. Gavin Newsom holds a news conference at Downey Memorial Christian Church in Downey, Calif., on July 16, 2025. Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images

Gov. Gavin Newsom disagrees with a state audit released Aug. 12 that found California could save up to $225 million each year by allowing state workers to work remotely.

State workers have slowly returned to the office after teleworking during the pandemic. In March, Newsom directed the employees to spend at least four days a week at the office.