Brazil’s Senate approved a constitutional amendment to shorten the workweek to 40 hours, a move that could benefit 37 million workers and hand President Lula a political victory ahead of the Oct 25 runoff. The bill, which ends the 6x1 work schedule, was approved in two rounds of votes, with 75 senators supporting it.
The amendment, backed by lawmakers across the political spectrum including Lula’s runoff opponent Flavio Bolsonaro, who reversed his stance, aims to reduce working hours in Brazil’s largest economy. The change, which will take effect over 14 months, is expected to affect sectors like retail and hospitality, where 16 million workers currently work six days a week.
Lula, seeking a fourth term, has championed the reform, which he says gives workers more time to live and care for their families. Bolsonaro, who initially opposed the bill, now supports it, citing public support for the change. The bill’s approval comes as Lula trails in polls, with a Quaest survey showing him at 49% versus Bolsonaro’s 51% in the runoff.
Bolsonaro has advocated an alternative proposal allowing flexible work hours, but the 40-hour workweek bill remains in effect. The amendment’s implementation will be phased over 14 months, with the final reduction to 40 hours set for 2028.