Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) lawmaker and a self-described democratic socialist has introduced a 32-hour workweek proposal without any pay reduction, believing it would improve the lives of many Americans.
Senator Sanders Pushing for a Shorter Workweek Without Pay Cuts
Sander believes that American workers are now over 400% more productive than in the 1940s. Yet, many are still working longer hours for lower pay.
Sanders's bill, named the Thirty-Two-Hour Workweek Act, aims to gradually shorten the standard workweek from 40 to 32 hours over four years by adjusting the overtime pay threshold for non-exempt employees. The bill mandates time-and-a-half pay for workdays over eight hours and double pay for those exceeding 12 hours to safeguard workers' pay and benefits. It also includes provisions to prevent reduced pay and benefits due to the shorter workweek.
European Nations Advocating for a Four-Day Workweek
Lawmakers, business leaders, and academics in the U.S. are increasingly advocating for a four-day workweek, but some critics are skeptical about its impact on employers.
Sanders highlighted in a fact sheet numerous European nations that have shortened work hours and observed positive outcomes, including France, with 35 workweek hours and ongoing discussions on whether to further reduce it to 32 hours, and Norway and Denmark, which have a 37-hour workweek.
4 Day Week Global, a nonprofit organization endorsing Sanders' bill, conducted a study last year where several companies enrolled in a pilot program to trial a six-month four-day workweek. The study revealed that most participating companies observed a general rise in revenue and productivity and have decided against reverting to a traditional five-day workweek.
Dr. Dale Whelehan, CEO of 4 Day Week Global, stated that the bill highlights the growing trend of shorter work hours, with evidence showing that reducing work hours brings positive results for businesses, individuals, and the community.
Critics' Stances on Shorter Workweek Hours
However, critics caution that not all companies can afford shorter work hours without cutting wages. In a previous interview with Fox News, Mary Elizabeth Elkordy, founder of Elkordy Global Strategies, emphasized that companies must maintain their workload, potentially necessitating hiring and training additional staff.
Elkordy pointed out that while a four-day workweek could suit certain businesses, such as those with extended hours, such as nurses or firefighters, its feasibility in service-oriented industries where pay correlates directly with time and output may be questionable.
Sanders's Push For Equality in The Working Class
However, Sanders mentioned that advancements in technology have enabled the reduction of work hours for many Americans. Sanders emphasized that the financial benefits from significant advancements in artificial intelligence, automation, and technology should prioritize the working class, not only the CEOs and wealthy stockholders. Sanders said that it is time to reduce stress and improve Americans' quality of life through a 32-hour workweek without pay reduction.
