Brazil's Senate approved a constitutional amendment to shorten the workweek to 40 hours, a move that could benefit President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's re-election campaign. The reform, which will take effect in stages over 14 months, aims to reduce the maximum working week from 44 to 40 hours, affecting over 30 million workers. The change is expected to impact sectors like retail and hospitality, where six-day workweeks are common.
The amendment, backed by lawmakers across the political spectrum including right-wing Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, who had previously opposed it, marks a significant shift in Brazilian labor rights. Bolsonaro, who led Lula in the first round of the election, reversed his stance ahead of the Senate vote, citing public support for the reform. The proposal, which began as a TikTok movement, was pushed by Lula's party and has been endorsed by over 70% of the population.
The reform's approval could provide Lula with a key legislative advantage as he prepares for the October 25 runoff. The change is expected to give workers more time to rest and spend time with family, potentially boosting voter sentiment. However, the full implementation of the reform is scheduled for 14 months, with a 60-day transition period before the reduction in working hours takes effect.
Bolsonaro's party had considered blocking the reform but polls showed strong public and senatorial support. While Bolsonaro supports the reform, he has indicated that he would review parts of the amendment if elected. The reform's approval does not immediately affect the upcoming runoff, but it could influence voter perceptions of economic and social policies.