Brazil Senate schedules debate on ending 6x1 work week

Senate President Davi Alcolumbre scheduled a plenary discussion for Tuesday on a constitutional amendment that would end the 6x1 work schedule. The session comes two days after the first round of the 2026 presidential election on Sunday.

The proposal, known as PEC 221/2019, would reduce the maximum weekly work hours from 44 to 40 and guarantee two paid weekly rest days without salary cuts. It has already passed the lower house and received a favorable report in the Senate's Constitution and Justice Committee.

“The Senate reaffirms its commitment to dialogue and to building solutions that consider workers, the productive sector, and the economic and social development of the country.”

The committee approved the text exactly as it came from the Chamber of Deputies, rejecting changes proposed during Senate deliberations. If the full Senate approves it without substantive changes, the measure can be promulgated without returning to the lower house.

The initiative is a flagship electoral pledge of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who is running for re-election. A government ally said the scheduling creates an important political fact for Lula days before a tight election.

Alcolumbre also scheduled additional discussion sessions for Wednesday and Thursday. Under congressional rules, five discussion sessions are required before a first-round vote, though this calendar can be shortened with an agreement.

A government source said the pace of debate will be determined after Sunday's vote results, giving Alcolumbre greater influence. The Senate presidency stated the topic will be debated with responsibility, balance, and respect for different perspectives.