Brazil's Senate is now reviewing a constitutional amendment to end the 6x1 work schedule, which requires employees to work six days for one day of rest.

The proposal represents a significant shift in labor rights, aiming to modernize legislation and improve the quality of life for millions of workers across the country.

The Proposta de Emenda à Constituição (PEC) was approved by the Chamber of Deputies on May 29, 2026 [3]. The amendment seeks to reduce the standard weekly work limit from 44 hours to 40 hours [1]. Under the new rules, workers would be guaranteed at least two days of rest per week [1].

Legislators intend to transition the labor market toward a 5x2 schedule. While some reports suggest a gradual reduction of the workweek [1], other versions of the text indicate the creation of a flexible schedule where workers may opt for hourly payment [2].

The process now moves to the Senate in Brasília, where the measure must undergo two voting rounds before final approval [1]. The timeline for this transition remains a point of discussion among officials. While some reports indicate that the next steps are still pending following the installation of a commission on May 29 [5], the government has expressed a more optimistic outlook.

"The expectation is that the Senate approves the PEC within 30 days," the Minister of Labor said [4].

Supporters of the PEC argue that the change is necessary to provide greater flexibility in work arrangements, and to prioritize the well-being of the workforce. The measure would effectively ban the traditional 6x1 rotation, which has been a point of contention for labor advocates seeking to reduce employee burnout and increase family time.

“The proposal transitions to a 5x2 schedule with a gradual reduction of the workweek.”

The transition from a 6x1 to a 5x2 work model would be one of the most significant changes to Brazilian labor law in decades. By reducing the workweek and increasing mandatory rest, the government is attempting to align Brazil with global trends toward shorter work hours to boost productivity and mental health. However, the tension between a strict 40-hour limit and a flexible, hourly-pay model suggests that the Senate may negotiate the final terms to balance worker protections with the operational needs of the business sector.