A Brazilian congressional committee approved a proposed constitutional amendment to eliminate the 6x1 work schedule, which requires six days of work for one day of rest [1, 2].
The move represents a significant shift in labor rights for millions of workers. By mandating more rest days without reducing pay, the proposal seeks to improve worker well-being and modernize the national labor framework.
The Constitution and Justice Committee (CCJ) of the Chamber of Deputies passed the measure with 34 votes in favor and four against [1]. The proposal was led by rapporteur Rep. Leo Prates, who said the change is a necessary step for the workforce.
"It is a viable, urgent and necessary measure," Prates said [1].
Under the proposal, workers currently on the 6x1 schedule would move to a system providing two days of paid rest per week. There are conflicting reports regarding the specific hourly limit established by the amendment. Some records indicate a reduction to 40 hours per week [1], while other reports state the amendment establishes a maximum ceiling of 36 hours weekly [2].
Despite the committee's approval, the measure must still face a full vote in the plenary. To become law, the proposal requires 308 votes for approval in the house [1].
Controversy surrounded the attendance of some lawmakers during the committee process. However, a fact check confirmed that Rep. Kim Kataguiri was present during the CCJ vote on the proposal [3].
Discrepancies exist regarding the exact date of the committee's action. Some sources place the vote on April 27, 2026 [1], while others cite April 22, 2026 [2].
“"It is a viable, urgent and necessary measure."”
This legislative move signals a growing political momentum in Brazil to decouple productivity from traditional six-day work weeks. If the proposal clears the plenary, it would force a massive restructuring of operational shifts across the service and retail sectors, potentially increasing employment needs to cover the gap left by the additional mandatory rest day.
