Joni Ernst criticizes federal telework in new report highlighting absenteeism and performance issues

Iowa Senator Joni Ernst released a report criticizing federal telework, highlighting issues like employee absenteeism and performance failures. The report follows her August inquiry to 24 agencies about telecommuting's impact on government operations. Ernst's findings include claims of employees misusing telework, such as a USAID worker fraudulently collecting locality pay while living out of state. She also noted significant underutilization of federal office space, with some agencies using less than 15% of their facilities. The report raises concerns about safety and health risks from vacant buildings, including potential water contamination. Ernst has proposed legislation to address these issues and improve accountability in federal employment practices.