I just updated to LinuxCNC 2.8.2-72-gbcb0b7c4e with Gmoccapy 3.1.3.8 and I have the same issue.
I have G54 in my "RS274NGC_STARTUP_CODE =" line and get absolute coordinates for the work DRO, until some other work offset is entered in MDI followed by G54 then the DRO reads correctly.
My temporary workaround is to place G55 (set to the same offset values as G54) in the "RS274NGC_STARTUP_CODE =" section of my ini file. Then when a program is run with G54 or a macro button that includes G54 is pressed, the DRO then corrects itself.
Regardless of what work offset is set in the ini file the Work DRO defaults to absolute coordinates. I can confirm the machine is indeed using the work offset specified in the startup line, just the DRO is wrong upon startup. I must enter some different work offset for the DRO to update or "refresh itself to the actual active work offset coordinate system. The DRO correctly displays G54, G55, etc but in absolute coordinates and not active coordinates until the work offset is changed.
One thing to note, if I go to manual mode then open the touch-off button list none of the work offsets are highlighted, after a successful Gxx followed by G54 (or any desired work offset) the active offset text is highlighted light blue in color and the DRO is then correct.
Hope this helps, let me know what other info I can provide to help troubleshoot.
-edit...this is only an issue upon starting LinuxCNC.