State employees: travel reimbursements.
The extension of this bill is significant for the operations of state employees, as it offers flexibility in their travel arrangements. By allowing the use of transportation network companies and short-term rentals, the bill caters to the evolving landscape of travel accommodations and services, promoting convenience and potentially cost-effectiveness for the state. It represents an adaptation of state policies to align more closely with contemporary practices in travel and lodging, reflecting a shift towards recognizing the benefits of utilizing technology-driven services in public administration.
Assembly Bill No. 2777, introduced by Assemblymember Daly, amends the Government Code to continue allowing state employees to use transportation services from transportation network companies and stay in short-term rentals while traveling on official state business. Originally enacted to expire on January 1, 2019, this bill extends these provisions until January 1, 2022. It affirms that state agencies cannot prohibit this use and must reimburse employees for necessary and actual expenses incurred during such travel in accordance with established agency policies.
Overall, the sentiment regarding AB 2777 appears favorable among legislators, particularly those supportive of flexible travel policies for state employees. The measure is viewed as progressive, acknowledging the practicality of using modern transport and lodging options. While there may be minimal opposition, especially concerning the oversight of such reimbursements and the impact on traditional lodging businesses, the bill has garnered broad legislative support as evidenced by its successful advancement through legislative processes without extensive contention.
One notable point of contention discussed during the legislative sessions was the concern over the potential for over-reimbursement or misuse of funds when utilizing these non-traditional services for travel. Critics raised questions about the adequacy of monitoring and regulatory frameworks to manage such reimbursements effectively. However, proponents maintained that proper guidelines and established agency reimbursement policies could adequately safeguard against misuse, thereby justifying the need for such a modernized approach to state travel expenses.