Mandates for a greener commute by 2035

Conflict arose last month when the Metropolitan Transporation Commission proposed a new plan that would have employees at large companies working from home at least 60% of the time by 2035. Their goal was to decongest commuter traffic and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Lawmakers quickly shot down the proposal, stating it would put jobs at risk. "This will spur a flight of large employers from the Bay Area," said San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo.

In November, the MTC backed off the work-from-home mandate and introduced a plan that would "subsidize transit passes, bikes, on-site employee housing, and commuter shuttles, as well as helping workers afford housing in walkable, transit-rich communities." Mayor Liccardo endorsed the new plan, saying that it "gives the employers the flexibility they need."