The proposed amendment to the labor code in the Czech Republic regarding work-from-home expenses has undergone a significant change. Initially, the legislation mandated that employers reimburse employees for increased costs associated with remote work. However, a new provision has been introduced, making such reimbursement voluntary rather than mandatory. This amendment has sparked a debate among stakeholders and raised concerns among labor unions.

The original agreement reached by the tripartite committee, led by Minister Marian Jurečka, stated that individuals working from home would be entitled to a minimum compensation of 2.80 Czech korunas per hour. However, the latest version of the proposed amendment introduces a provision that treats compensation for home office expenses as an optional provision, not an obligation.

Under the new provision, employers and employees can agree in writing that employees are not entitled to reimbursement for expenses incurred while working remotely. This change contradicts the fundamental principle of the labor code that dependent work should be carried out at the employer’s expense, leading to concerns among labor unions.

The change in the legislation emerged after the public consultation process on the draft law. The Legislative Council of the Government proposed the amendment, which was approved by the government on the condition that the Ministry of Labor incorporates the change.

Trade union representatives, disappointed by the amendment, argue that it deviates from the initial agreement and undermines the principle that work expenses should be borne by the employer. However, some politicians and experts view the change as providing flexibility, enabling employers and employees to negotiate actual costs or even forgo reimbursement altogether.

Opinions among politicians vary, with some considering the change favorable for both employees and employers, while others see it as an additional burden on employers. The bill will now proceed to the Chamber of Deputies for further discussion and potential modifications.

Representatives of business organizations, such as the Czech Chamber of Commerce, welcome the amendment as a victory for common sense. They emphasize the need for clarification regarding the term “in advance” in the added paragraph, which may require employers to establish new agreements with employees regarding work-from-home arrangements.

The ongoing debate revolves around distinguishing between mandatory and voluntary work-from-home situations. While expenses are generally expected to be covered when remote work is mandated, it is seen as an expression of goodwill from employers when employees request work-from-home arrangements, and additional costs for utilities are deemed unnecessary.

The aim of the amendment is to strike a balance between the interests of employers and employees while implementing the European directive. The outcome of the discussions in the Chamber of Deputies will determine the final form of the law.

Article by Prague Forum