Utah's 3-Day Weekend

Back in July of 2008, Utah changed the schedules of about 17,000 government employees to a 4-day work week for a year long trial. They were hoping to cut some costs, lower their carbon footprint, and improve customer service. I can see how a 4-day work week achieves the first two, but the last goal doesn't seem to compute with fewer days in the office. Oh well, that's not important:-/

Here's one of the 2008 articles: http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2008-06-30-four-day_N.htm
Halfway Marker: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29393522/

One year later, the results are in! The state saved $1.8 billion, CO2 emissions were decreased by 6,000 metric tons, and 82% of the employees want to keep the schedule. I'd call that a success. One of the drawbacks of a 10 hour day, however, is a larger propensity of people eating fast food.

Present Day Article: http://blogs.tnr.com/tnr/blogs/environmentandenergy/archive/2009/07/27/the-case-for-a-four-day-workweek.aspx

I think it’s a great idea! Other states claim to be considering the same route to help out in their own budget issues. My prediction: the next study they will conduct will be on the difference in productivity b/t 8hr and 10hr days. Then we’ll see if it’ll become a nationwide trend.

Maybe we should invest in vending machines and fast food chains.