Lula to Meet Chamber President to Discuss Ending 6x1 Work Schedule

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will meet Hugo Motta, president of the Chamber of Deputies, on Monday, May 25 ^[1], in Brasília.

The meeting aims to resolve a fundamental disagreement over the proposal to end the "escala 6x1" work schedule, which requires employees to work six days followed by one day off. The outcome will determine whether the shift to a shorter work week happens immediately or through a gradual phase-in period.

Lula has expressed strong opposition to a transition period. He said the idea of a gradual implementation is "brincar de fazer redução" — or a game of reduction ^[1]. The president intends to push for a more direct end to the 6x1 system to ensure workers receive the benefits of reduced hours without prolonged delays.

Hugo Motta said he will consult with legislative leaders once the government officially submits the project to end the 6x1 schedule ^[2]. This consultative process is a key point of contention, as the executive branch seeks a swifter resolution than the legislative leadership may be prepared to grant.

Earlier this year, Motta created a special commission to debate and vote on the end of the 6x1 schedule ^[3]. This commission was designed to evaluate the economic impact of the change, and to gather input from various sectors of the Brazilian economy before a final vote is taken.

The upcoming meeting on Monday ^[1] is seen as a critical step in aligning the government's labor goals with the political reality of the Chamber of Deputies. If Lula and Motta cannot reach an agreement on the timeline, the proposal may face significant hurdles or amendments during the legislative process.