Full Breakdown
Brazil Moves Toward a 40-Hour, Five-Day Workweek Amid Regional Shift
5/28/2026, 12:03:54 PM
Legislative Approval of the 40-Hour Workweek
On Wednesday, Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies passed a constitutional amendment that reduces the standard workweek from 44 to 40 hours, eliminates the sixth-day shift, and guarantees two consecutive rest days, preferably Saturday and Sunday. The change applies to at least 37 million workers and does not cut wages. Businesses are given 14 months to adjust. The bill now moves to the Senate.
Regional Context
Brazil joins a wave of Latin-American labor reforms. Mexico’s Congress approved President Claudia Sheinbaum’s plan to cut a 48-hour week to 40 hours by 2030. Chile enacted a 40-Hour Law in 2023 that took effect the next year. By contrast, Argentina under President Javier Milei is extending its 48-hour week.
Key Figures
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva sponsored the amendment. Government whip Paulo Pimenta framed it as justice for low-paid workers. Lawmaker Leo Prates drafted the text, emphasizing responsibility toward families. Business-oriented deputy Kim Kataguiri warned of hiring risks. Senator Flávio Bolsonaro suggested a flexible, hourly-payment model.
Data Summary
The current schedule is five × 8 hours + 4 hours on a sixth day = 44 hours/week. The amendment covers at least 37 million workers and allows a 14-month transition, whereas business groups had sought a ten-year phase-in.
Official Statements & Responses
The Lula administration presented the amendment as a step toward equity for Brazil’s lowest-paid workers. Leo Prates described the bill as built responsibly for families. Business representatives cautioned that the rapid shift could force firms to pause hiring, a concern echoed by opposition deputies.
Criticism & Opposition
Business groups argue the shortened week raises labor costs and reduces flexibility. Kim Kataguiri warned that the change could harm companies and leave workers worse off if hiring slows. Some opposition deputies supported the amendment after constituent pressure but criticized its speed and potential economic impact.
What’s Next
The amendment still requires Senate approval before it can be incorporated into the constitution. The Senate has not set a vote date and may amend the text, leaving the timeline uncertain. With the presidential election scheduled for October, political calculations could influence the final decision.
Verbatim Quotes
- “People who have this workweek from Monday to Saturday are the ones that have to work the hardest and are paid the least,” — Paulo Pimenta, Government Whip, Chamber of Deputies
- “I don't care this is an election year. I think we need to be responsible. This will be a problem for many companies,” — Kim Kataguiri, Lawmaker
- “We are doing this in a rush and workers should know they might end up worse than they are now if business leaders stop hiring.” — Kim Kataguiri, Lawmaker
- “This was built with a lot of responsibility, thinking about workers and families in Brazil,” — Leo Prates, Lawmaker
