Brazil Senate stalls popular 6×1 workweek reform

A new Genial/Quaest poll shows that 69% of Brazilian voters support ending the 6×1 work schedule, while 22% oppose it. Respondents say they would use extra free time to rest with family (53%), seek extra work (13%) or study (12%).

The proposal, PEC 221/2019, which reduces the legal workweek from 44 to 40 hours and guarantees two paid rest days, was approved by the Chamber of Deputies in May but remains blocked in the Senate. Senate President Davi Alcolumbre has not forwarded the measure to the Constitution and Justice Committee, and no vote is scheduled before the parliamentary recess.

Senator Paulo Paim (PT‑RS) defended the amendment, arguing that shorter weeks raise productivity. He said, “Não estamos propondo trabalhar menos para produzir menos. Estamos propondo trabalhar melhor para produzir mais.” He cited OECD data showing higher hourly output in Germany, Denmark and the Netherlands, and warned that the current schedule contributes to health risks.

Transport analysts warn that ending the 6×1 schedule could raise bus fares by up to 8% in Curitiba, as labor costs represent about half of operating expenses. The proposal is also being debated on TV Aparecida, where experts discuss potential impacts on productivity, employment and service continuity.