Brazil’s Senate Advances the End of the 6×1 Work Schedule as the Election Clock Ticks

On 27 August, Brazil's Senate rapporteur Omar Aziz delivered a favorable report on the amendment to the 6×1 work schedule, keeping the Chamber's text unchanged to expedite passage. This avoids a return to the lower house and propels the proposal straight to promulgation by Congress. The electoral calendar, with Brazilian presidential elections scheduled for 4 October, makes speed crucial; every week of delay reduces the likelihood of a pre-election vote.

Senate President Davi Alcolumbre, who has grown closer to President Lula recently, unlocked the bill after securing President Lula's support. The 6×1 work schedule, which consists of six days of work followed by one day of rest, is prevalent in sectors like retail, call centers, private security, and healthcare, disproportionately affecting low-income and female workers.

The amendment reduces the workweek from 44 hours to 40, while increasing rest days to two per week, with one being a Sunday. Despite some opposition, the Senate approved the amendment earlier in August, and it reached the Constitution and Justice Committee on 21 August. The rapporteur rejected 12 amendments, arguing they were unconstitutional or would create legal insecurity.

The industry lobby, represented by the Federation of Industries of the State of São Paulo (Fiesp), claims the timing is influenced by the electoral calendar, labeling it the "Exit-Poll Amendment." The 40-hour workweek proposal enjoys backing from President Lula's party, while the opposition, particularly the Liberal Party, views it as a burden on businesses.