Brazil’s Congress has approved a constitutional amendment to reduce the maximum working week from 44 to 40 hours, marking a significant win for President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. This reform, which is expected to impact over 30 million workers, comes as Lula seeks re-election in the presidential runoff scheduled for October 25. The change aims to benefit employees in sectors like retail, hospitality, and restaurants, where six-day workweeks are prevalent, by improving their work-life balance.
The amendment, which first passed the lower house in May, saw overwhelming support in the Senate, with 75 votes in favor and only one against. The measure will gradually reduce working hours, initially dropping to 42 hours before reaching the 40-hour goal after 14 months, allowing workers more time for rest, family, and personal pursuits. Lula has championed the reform, emphasizing the importance of improved quality of life for workers and their families.
Support for the amendment was bolstered by a grassroots campaign and gained traction within Lula’s political party. Proponents argue that shorter workweeks could enhance physical and mental well-being, providing workers with better opportunities for education and family care. Labor researchers highlight that the current six-day workweek, with just one day off, contributes to exhaustion and limits social engagement, especially for women with significant domestic duties.
Initially, Lula’s opponent, far-right senator Flávio Bolsonaro, opposed the proposal, citing potential unemployment risks. However, he shifted his stance before the Senate vote, acknowledging public support for the reform.
While the Senate’s approval is a crucial step, the reform’s implementation will not be immediate. After formal promulgation, a 60-day period will precede the transition to the new workweek schedule. The timing of this decision is critical as it strengthens Lula’s campaign narrative of enhancing workers’ rights and economic well-being ahead of his electoral battle against Bolsonaro.