Brazil Congress Approves Shorter Workweek as Presidential Race Remains Tight

The measure also bans six-day workweeks, known as the "6x1 schedule," which currently affects 16 million Brazilians.

The changes are expected to impact up to 30 million people, particularly in retail, restaurant, and hotel sectors. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, who backed the amendment, called it a historic achievement for millions of workers. Flávio Bolsonaro, Lula's opponent in the upcoming presidential runoff, initially opposed the proposal but voted in favor on Tuesday.

The new rules will not take effect until after the October 25 runoff election; six-day workweeks will be abolished in 60 days, and the 40-hour maximum will be implemented after a further 14 months. Recent polls show a tight race between Lula and Bolsonaro. A Datafolha poll places Bolsonaro at 51% and Lula at 49% of valid votes, indicating a technical tie.

A Quaest poll shows Bolsonaro with 46% of voting intentions against Lula's 44%, a gap within the margin of error. Bolsonaro holds a lead among middle-class voters, those in Brazil's south, and evangelicals, though his support among evangelicals slipped by seven points. Lula's campaign has accused Meta of favoring Bolsonaro on its platforms and has intensified its digital campaign with young influencers.

Lula has announced high-impact measures, including a one-time payment of 5,000 reais to micro-entrepreneurs and free weekend bus services. Lula also voiced support for lowering the age of criminal responsibility from 18 to 16 for serious crimes, while Bolsonaro favors a broader reduction. Bolsonaro will face Lula in their first head-to-head televised debate on October 18, with Bolsonaro's campaign reportedly aiming for a zero draw. The runoff election is scheduled for October 25.