Changes to the State’s policy regarding cell phones and wireless devices is bringing changes for County employees’ in terms of use and cost reimbursement. The Board of Supervisors has approved a policy change that will end the provision of cell phones and devices for government employees. Employees must provide their own phone devices and in turn request reimbursement in fixed amounts. These amounts will be distributed in stipends. CountyAdministrative Officer (CAO) Terri Daly presented the new Stipend Authorization form to the Administrative Committee on Monday. The stipends range from 45 dollars for cell phones to 75 dollars for Blackberries. Blackberries are currently the only wireless devices that interface with county technology. For infrequent cell phone use, employees can submit monthly requests for a reimbursement on specific business calls. Employees with needs beyond the preset stipend amounts will need CAO approval. The IRS mandates that cell phone reimbursements be included in payroll records, making them taxable to employees.