Around 500 Minnesota state employees protested Saturday in St. Paul, calling on DFL Gov. Tim Walz to reverse course on a policy to require more in-office work. The governor says having more employees spend at least half their time at their workplaces will improve communication and collaboration.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz on Tuesday changed the remote work policy for state employees, mandating they be in the office for at least half of their workdays starting this summer.

Return to the office mandates remain controversial and deliver mixed results, which may be why the Democratic state leader is trying a balanced approach that appeals to working parents.