Virginia Marks Telework Day

The start of the work week could begin at home for many Virginians.

Monday is Telework Day, and Virginia businesses are being encouraged to let their employees work at home.

Karen Jackson, the state's deputy secretary of technology, said there are environmental as well as psychological benefits to working at home. Workers save on gas, the environment is spared auto emissions from fewer commuters and drivers avoid the frustration of sitting in traffic.

Studies also show working outside the office can increase productivity.

Jackson said nearly one-fourth of state workers who are eligible to work at home do so at last one day a week. She had no figures on telecommuting in the private sector.