A Brazilian congressional committee approved a base text for a constitutional amendment to eliminate the 6x1 work schedule [1].
The move signals a significant shift in labor rights for millions of workers who currently work six days for every one day of rest. By reducing the work week, the government aims to improve labor conditions and modernize the national employment framework [3].
The Commission on Constitution and Justice (CCJ) of the Chamber of Deputies approved the measure on April 22, 2026 [3]. The proposal received support from Chamber President Hugo Motta and President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva [1].
Under the new rules, the standard work week would be reduced to 40 hours [1]. This change is designed to increase the number of weekly days off for employees, moving away from the traditional 6x1 rotation [1].
To prevent sudden economic shocks, the proposal includes a transition period of 14 months for the new rules to take effect [1]. This window is intended to allow businesses to adjust their staffing and operational schedules without immediate disruption.
The session in the CCJ was productive, resulting in the approval of two different proposed constitutional amendments [4]. The measure now moves forward in the legislative process toward a full vote in the Chamber of Deputies.
Supporters of the measure said the change is necessary to align Brazil's labor laws with contemporary standards of health, and productivity [3]. The initiative focuses on improving the quality of life for the working class by providing more time for rest and family.
“The proposal includes a transition period of 14 months for the new rules to take effect.”
The approval of this base text marks a critical step in a legislative effort to overhaul Brazil's labor market. If passed into law, the transition from a 6x1 schedule to a 40-hour week would force a nationwide restructuring of service and retail sectors, potentially increasing employment demand to cover the gap in labor hours while testing the economic resilience of small businesses.
