Fewer Trips To Work, More Gas In Your Tank

A growing movement is happening nationwide to cut back on travel one day a week to help people cope with rising gas prices. A Tulsa based company has made the switch, saving their employees big bucks by moving to a four day work week. As News On 6 anchor Craig Day reports, more businesses and public agencies are now considering doing it too.

Danielle McKenney drives 30 miles one way from Claremore to Tulsa each day. So when her employer, Selco, offered its production employees the chance to work four days a week to avoid one day of commuting, she jumped at the chance.

"It really does make a difference on my gas gauge," said Claremore resident, Danielle McKenney.

Employees at Selco, which makes custom watches and clocks, work four ten hour shifts. Production manager Tim Allen calls it a win-win.

"As long as we're taking care of our customer and everybody is happy with it. I'd like to see how long we can do it this way because everybody here is happy," said Selco Production Manager, Tim Allen.

While some private companies are going to a four day work week to help their employees with the staggering cost of gas, many public sector organizations are considering doing the same thing.

The Oklahoma Public Employees Association is lobbying for a four day work week. DHS employee Addie Campos says it would really help many state workers, especially those who have gone without raises for several years.

"To save on gas, my goodness with the price of gas, it's either gas or a loaf of bread or a gallon of milk," said DHS Employee, Addie Campos.

On an online survey, more than 90%of state employees support the idea. As for Danielle McKenney, her schedule change amounts to more days off with her kids and a savings of $50 a month on gas.

"At these prices, every little bit helps," said McKenney.

If a four day work week is approved by the state, offices would still be open five days a week, but employees would stagger schedules.

The Oklahoma Public Employees Association will hold a public hearing to discuss going to four day work weeks. That meeting is July 9th from 10:00 to Noon at the State Capitol.