Brazil moves toward a shorter workweek
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Brazil's lower house approved a constitutional amendment to establish a 40-hour, five-day workweek, ending the current 44-hour, six-day workweek without reducing pay for at least 37 million workers.
- The amendment, supported by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, aims to guarantee two consecutive rest days each week and has broad popular support ahead of the October presidential elections.
- The business sector criticized the proposal, warning it could harm companies, while the amendment allows a 14-month transition period for businesses to adapt.
- The amendment now moves to Brazil's Senate, which may make changes before final approval, amid political debate including opposition proposals for more flexible hourly payment systems.
- Other Latin American countries like Mexico and Chile have also reduced working hours recently, while Argentina is moving in the opposite direction by extending its maximum workday and reducing overtime pay.