The Mexican Senate unanimously approved a presidential proposal to reduce the legal workweek from 48 to 40 hours, which will now be debated in the Chamber of Deputies.
On Wednesday, November 11, the Mexican Senate passed a proposal aimed at reducing the legal workweek from 48 hours to 40. This significant change emerged after years of negotiations between Congress and the private sector and is part of President Claudia Sheinbaum's initiative, which she formally introduced in December. The proposal garnered unanimous support with 121 votes and now advances to the Chamber of Deputies for final deliberation.
The initiative outlines a gradual plan to reduce the workweek by two hours each year until 2030, impacting around 13.4 million workers. While this legislative advancement is seen as a milestone for labor rights in Mexico, it has faced criticism. Members of the opposition and union leaders argue that the proposal has been weakened, claiming it includes loopholes that may prevent substantial reductions in working hours despite the intended goals.
Should the proposal gain final approval, the labor reform would take effect on May 1, marking the start of the gradual reduction in working hours. This legislative change is actively framed as a necessary modernization of labor laws in Mexico, reflecting ongoing discussions about work-life balance and employees' rights.”,
