Senate President Davi Alcolumbre (União Brasil-AP) defended ending the six-day-on/one-day-off work schedule without a transition period in Brasília [1].

The proposal, known as a Proposed Amendment to the Constitution (PEC), seeks to fundamentally alter labor laws for millions of Brazilian workers by eliminating the 6x1 shift. If passed, it would remove one of the most common and demanding work structures in the country's service and retail sectors.

Alcolumbre met with union leaders on June 1, 2024 [1]. During these discussions, he urged the rapid advancement of the PEC to abolish the schedule. He said that implementing a transition period would only serve to delay the reform [3].

In public statements made on June 2, 2024, Alcolumbre clarified the Senate's role in the legislative process [2]. He said that the Senate is not obligated to automatically adopt the version of the bill passed by the Chamber of Deputies. "The Senate is not obliged to stamp what comes from the Chamber," Alcolumbre said [2].

The Senate president also indicated his intention to coordinate with the executive branch to ensure the measure moves forward. "I hope to speak with President Lula to move forward with the PEC that puts an end to the 6x1 scale," Alcolumbre said [3].

While Alcolumbre has pushed for an immediate change, some reports indicate that discussions are still ongoing regarding whether a transition period should be included to allow businesses to adjust [2]. Despite these conflicting reports, the Senate president has maintained his position that the change should occur swiftly to benefit workers.

“"The Senate is not obliged to stamp what comes from the Chamber."”

The push to eliminate the 6x1 schedule represents a significant shift in Brazilian labor policy, moving toward a shorter work week to improve worker well-being. By insisting on the absence of a transition period, Alcolumbre is signaling a preference for rapid social reform over the gradual adjustment typically requested by business associations. The Senate's refusal to simply 'stamp' the Chamber's version suggests that the final law may be modified to better align with Senate priorities or executive negotiations.