In Mexicoa proposal is being debated to reduce the working day from 48 to 40 weekly hours, a labor reform that has the support of workers but also raises concerns among employers. Approval of this proposal is pending in the Mexican Congress, and it has not yet been determined when it would come into effect. However, if approved, it would have a significant impact on the working lives of Mexicans.
Current working hours of employees in Mexico
The current working day of employees in Mexico, as established in the Federal Labor Law, includes 48 hours per week distributed over six days with one day of rest. The Constitution establishes that “for every six days of work, the operator must enjoy at least one day of rest.” The three work shifts of the companies are the following:
- Daytime: Hours from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a total day of eight hours.
- Night shift: Hours from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., with a maximum work day of seven hours.
- Mixed day: Involves a day of approximately seven and a half hours.
What does the proposal to reduce working hours consist of?
The proposal to reduce the working day seeks to modify section A of article 123 of the Political Constitution of Mexico regarding days of rest and the reduction of the working day. In this sense, it is proposed:
- Reduce weekly work hours from 48 to 40.
- Grant two days of rest for every five days worked.
Since when will the reduction in working hours work?
Regarding the implementation date of the reduction in working hours, this project has obtained the support of committees, but is still awaiting critical approval that must come from the plenary session of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate. To come into force, the reform needs the support of two-thirds of legislators or a public debate process.
In the event that modifications are made, these must be put to a vote and obtain the corresponding approval. If it is ratified without changes by both chambers, it will be sent to the Executive branch and published in the Official Gazette of the Federation for implementation.
Benefits and disadvantages of the 40-hour work day
When it comes to the benefits and disadvantages of the 40-hour workday, it is important to consider the following:
Benefits:
- Improved quality of life: Reducing the working day gives workers more time to dedicate to their family, free time and personal development, which translates into an improvement in their quality of life. In addition, it can help reduce stress and fatigue, with a positive impact on the mental and physical health of workers.
- Greater productivity: Despite expectations, reducing the working day does not necessarily decrease the productivity of workers. Studies have shown that those who work fewer hours are more productive as they are more rested and motivated.
- Short-term job creation: A reduction in working hours could require more employees to cover the same work hours, which could positively impact the labor market in the short term.
- Benefits to the economy: If workers have more time to spend, this could stimulate domestic demand and consequently benefit the economy. In addition, it could contribute to reducing the gender gap at work.
Disadvantages:
- Costs for companies: The reduction in working hours implies an increase in labor costs for companies, since they will have to pay more overtime or hire more staff to maintain the same production. This could negatively affect the profitability of companies and the economy in general, decreasing incentives for foreign investment.
- Difficulties in certain sectors: Some sectors, such as health or education, could face difficulties in implementing the reduction of working hours, since they require a minimum of hours to function properly.
- Long-term effect on wages: In the long term, wages could decrease to adapt to the new workday, which could have a negative impact on workers’ quality of life.