Pueblo Soberano restores original text for 4x3 workday bill

The Pueblo Soberano legislative faction in Costa Rica has successfully passed motion 2528, which restores the 4x3 exceptional workdays bill to its original text. This move reverts changes made by the previous legislature that would have required workers to vote collectively on whether to adopt the new schedule.

Under the restored text, companies in specific sectors—such as medical manufacturing, technical manufacturing, and corporate services—can request the 12-hour workday scheme. Instead of a collective vote, participation becomes a voluntary individual process where each worker must agree to join the regime. The proposal includes specific rotations: up to 12 hours for four consecutive days followed by three days off for certain shifts, and three consecutive days followed by four days off for night shifts.

The motion passed with 30 votes in favor, supported by Pueblo Soberano and deputy Abril Gordienko, while 24 opposition members voted against it. Supporters argue the change will boost investment and competitiveness, while critics note the removal of previous safeguards, such as mandatory medical evaluations and collective reversal mechanisms.