In a significant political development, the Chamber of Deputies in Argentina has approved a labor reform initiative put forward by President Javier Milei, with voting results indicating a narrow margin of 135 in favor and 115 against. This reform allows for the extension of the workday to 12 hours, simplifies the process for layoffs, and reduces employer contributions to social security. The vote took place shortly after a general strike was called by labor unions opposing the measures, showcasing the contentious nature of the reforms amid significant public dissent.

A notable aspect of the reform is the elimination of Article 44, which previously mandated wage reductions for sick workers. This change makes it necessary for the revised text to undergo another round of voting in the Senate, potentially complicating the legislative process. The labor reform forms a part of President Milei's broader agenda aimed at modernizing Argentina's labor laws, which has sparked heated debate regarding its implications for workers' rights and economic conditions across the nation.

As the initiative moves to the Senate for final approval, the ongoing reactions from labor unions will likely continue to influence the discourse surrounding labor rights in Argentina. Advocates argue that these changes may incentivize job creation and economic growth, while opponents fear such reforms could undermine worker protections and invoke greater job insecurity, leading to increased tension in the political landscape as the country navigates its recovery from recent economic challenges.