Some state governments and municipalities have switched to a four-day work week. The federal government is considering it as well. House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., is advocating a work week of four 10-hour days for federal employees, the Washington Post reports.

Rep. Hoyer asked the Office of Personnel Management to analyze the possibility of many federal employees adopting such a schedule. Federal agencies and departments "already have discretion to implement alternative work schedules," the letter noted.

"Reducing gasoline consumption" by limiting "unnecessary commuting" is one reason for the request, along with conserving energy and alleviating congestion. Flexible and compressed work schedules have also helped the government recruit and retain qualified workers.

A four-day work week was once frowned upon. Mr. Hoyer's initiative shows things have changed.