S.B. No. 2615 introduces new regulations regarding telework for employees of public institutions of higher education in Texas. The bill adds Section 51.992 to the Education Code, which outlines specific conditions under which telework may be permitted. Telework is defined as a work arrangement allowing employees to conduct institutional business outside their assigned workplace during established work hours. The bill prohibits institutions from allowing telework unless it meets certain criteria, such as the employee having a temporary illness, a medical condition requiring accommodation, or being in a nonteaching position with demonstrated capabilities for remote work. Additionally, it specifies that faculty members may telework only under certain circumstances, such as being on a temporary research assignment or providing telehealth services.

The bill also includes provisions for exemptions during catastrophic events that hinder an employee's ability to work in person, such as natural disasters or epidemics. After such events, institutions are required to make reasonable efforts to ensure that telework is only conducted in accordance with the new regulations. The provisions of this bill will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 academic year, and it will become effective immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote from both houses; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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