Key facts
- The amendment reduces the workweek to 40 hours from 44.
- Over 37 million formal-sector workers are expected to benefit.
- The new standard will be implemented over 14 months.
Brazil's Senate approved a constitutional amendment on Wednesday to reduce the country's workweek from six days to five, a significant legislative victory for President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. The reform, which lowers the standard workweek to 40 hours from 44, is expected to benefit over 37 million formal-sector workers and will be implemented over a 14-month period. The measure, which represents the most substantial overhaul of Brazilian labor rights in decades, had previously received approval from the lower house in May. Right-wing Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, who is also Lula's opponent in the upcoming presidential runoff, reversed his previous opposition to the measure and voted in favor of it. Lula hailed the amendment as a victory for workers, emphasizing the increased time for rest and family.