A constitutional amendment currently before the Brazilian Senate targets any work schedule that differs from the 5x2 model, not just the 6x1 shift [1].
The proposal represents a significant shift in labor legislation that could redefine how businesses operate across the country. While public debate has centered on the elimination of the 6x1 schedule, industry leaders warn the scope is much broader.
Fernanda Ribas, the labor manager for the Federation of Industries of the State of Minas Gerais (FIEMG), clarified the nature of the Proposal of Amendment to the Constitution (PEC) in a recent interview [1]. She said that the legislation does not exclusively seek to end the 6x1 shift.
"The proposal that is in process does not provide for the end of 6x1 and instead any one contrary to 5x2," Ribas said [1].
The PEC is currently moving through the Federal Senate, though it does not yet have a defined agenda for a final vote [1]. The move to standardize the work week has met resistance from trade and industry representatives who argue the rigid mandate ignores the diverse operational needs of different sectors.
Ivo Dall'Acqua Jr., president of FecomercioSP, expressed similar concerns regarding the legislative approach [2]. He said the text of the PEC does not contemplate the needs of the country [2].
Industry groups suggest that forcing a 5x2 model across all sectors could create logistical challenges for businesses that rely on flexible or rotating shifts to maintain continuous service. The debate now rests with the Senate as they determine whether to advance the amendment or modify its requirements to allow for more sectoral flexibility [1].
“"The proposal that is in process does not provide for the end of 6x1 and instead any one contrary to 5x2."”
This legislative push indicates a move toward a standardized national work week in Brazil, moving away from flexible sectoral arrangements. By targeting any model other than 5x2, the government is effectively attempting to eliminate various rotating shift structures, which could lead to increased labor costs and operational disruptions for service and industrial sectors that cannot function on a traditional Monday-to-Friday schedule.
