Senator Bernie Sanders has made waves this week with his bold proposal to reduce the standard workweek in the United States from 40 hours to 32, without a reduction in pay. In a hearing before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, Mr. Sanders argued that Americans are working longer hours for less pay, despite advances in technology and productivity.
If passed, the legislation would gradually decrease the workweek over a four-year period, lowering the threshold for overtime pay eligibility. The 40-hour workweek has been the standard in the U.S. since it was established in federal law in 1940.
Mr. Sanders pointed out that Americans work more hours than people in any other wealthy nation, with statistics showing that U.S. workers put in significantly more hours than their counterparts in Japan, Britain, and Germany. He emphasized that the profits from increased productivity over the years have largely benefited corporate leaders, rather than being shared with workers.
However, not everyone is on board with the proposed change. Senator Bill Cassidy, a Republican from Louisiana, expressed concerns that reducing the workweek could harm employers, lead to job outsourcing, and cause consumer prices to rise.
Despite the opposition, the idea of a shorter workweek has gained traction in recent years, especially in light of the shifts in work culture brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. Representative Mark Takano, a Democrat from California, introduced the 32-Hour Workweek Act in the House in 2021, and has now reintroduced it as a companion bill to Mr. Sanders’ legislation in the Senate.
Supporters of the idea point to a trial conducted by 61 companies in Britain in 2022, where most companies that switched to a four-day workweek saw steady revenues and productivity, along with a significant decrease in attrition. Economist Juliet Schor, who led the study, testified that 91% of companies stuck with the new schedule a year later, with employees reporting life-changing benefits.
However, critics argue that the pilot programs may not be applicable to all sectors and types of companies. Statistics professor Liberty Vittert from Washington University in St. Louis stated that there is not enough evidence to support a nationwide mandate for a 32-hour workweek, as what works for some companies may not work for others.
As the debate over the proposed legislation continues, it remains to be seen whether the U.S. will follow in the footsteps of other countries and embrace a shorter workweek for its workforce.
