The Mexican Chamber of Deputies has approved a labor reform to reduce the workweek from 48 to 40 hours, although it does not include a proposal for two mandatory days off per week.
On Monday, the Mexican Chamber of Deputies' unified commissions on Constitutional Points and Labor and Social Welfare approved a reform aimed at reducing the workweek from 48 to 40 hours. This proposal, championed by President Claudia Sheinbaum, received unanimous support from the 61 deputies present, and sets a gradual implementation target culminating in 2030. The discussions highlighted a key concern: while the reform stipulates a mandatory rest day for every six days worked, calls for a second day of rest during the week were not included in the final version.
Labor Secretary Marath Bolaños defended the gradual nature of the reform, emphasizing the need for an electronic system to monitor compliance once the new policy is enacted. The decision has sparked debates within labor rights circles regarding the sufficiency of a single day off and the broader implications for workers' rights in Mexico. Many advocates stress that while the reform represents a step towards better working conditions, it might not fully address the needs of the workforce who are pushing for further concessions.
The absence of provisions for an additional day of rest highlights ongoing tensions between labor reforms and worker advocacy groups. As the reform moves forward, it will be crucial to observe how these changes will be implemented and their impact on the labor market in Mexico. The proposal, while progressive, raises questions about its effectiveness in improving work-life balance for Mexican workers and the government's ability to monitor adherence to the new regulations.
