California state workers are threatening a “mass exodus” after Gov. Gavin Newsom ordered employees to return to the office four days a week beginning July 1.

The mandate would largely end the remote-work arrangements many state employees have enjoyed since the COVID hysteria.

Left-wing union leaders have launched a campaign against the order, including billboards near Sacramento highways warning of heavier traffic and overcrowded offices.

Anica Walls, president of SEIU Local 1000, insisted have been performing their jobs effectively from home for years.

“Since COVID we have been working and doing the jobs and being efficient and doing the jobs to keep California running,” Walls said.

State workers are backing legislation that would require agencies to offer telework options unless they can justify why a position must be performed in person.

Democratic Assemblyman Alex Lee, who introduced the bill, said many state employees consider remote work their top concern.

“I have heard from so many state workers from even the Bay Area all up and down the state who said this is the thing that matters the most to them,” Lee said.

The union claims telework saves California taxpayers up to $225 million annually through reduced office costs.

Newsom has acknowledged opposition to the policy but is not changing his position.

“Change is hard. I’m empathetic,” the governor said during a recent budget presentation.

“Four days a week, nice to see you again. I mean, would be nice to see you again, nice to see you again, nice to run into you in the hall, nice to develop a relationship, nice not feel so alone.”

Business leaders have largely welcomed the return of state workers.

Robert Heidt, president of the Sacramento Metro Chamber, said offices provide opportunities for collaboration, training and economic activity that remote work cannot fully replace.

“I can’t imagine that we can sustain an acceptable level of business and commerce with everyone remote. It just doesn’t make sense,” he said.

Union officials, however, warn some employees would rather retire or leave state service than spend most of the workweek back in the office.

“I feel like there will be a mass exodus,” Walls said. “I feel like the state needs to be ready for a mass exodus.”

The standoff sets up a growing clash between Newsom and thousands of government employees, many of whom would be his most fervent supporters.

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