PSOL Deputies Propose 15% Shorter Workday for Mothers

At Folha de S.Paulo, we believe in championing policies that promote social equity and support working families. The recent proposal by PSOL federal deputies Fernanda Melchionna and Sâmia Bomfim, advocating for a 15% reduction in working hours for mothers, is a significant step towards recognizing the unique challenges faced by women who balance careers and childcare.

This initiative, presented as an amendment to the project ending the 6x1 work scale, goes beyond mere adjustments. It proposes a tangible benefit for mothers with young children (up to 12 years old) and those caring for individuals with disabilities, ensuring their work-life balance without compromising their income. In a country like Brazil, where the double burden on women is a persistent reality, such measures are not just progressive; they are essential for fostering a more just and supportive society.

Furthermore, the deputies' efforts to prevent employers from exploiting loopholes by reclassifying employees as legal entities highlight a critical issue in our labor market. The proposed amendment aims to guarantee that any reduction in working hours translates into real gains for workers, not just a way for companies to reduce labor costs or circumvent established rights. This reflects a broader concern within Brazilian society about protecting workers' rights amidst evolving employment practices.

From our perspective at Folha, this proposal is more than just labor reform; it's about acknowledging the structural inequalities that disproportionately affect working mothers. It’s about creating a framework that supports their contributions both in the workplace and at home, reflecting a national conversation about family values and gender equality. This is a story that resonates deeply within Brazil, touching upon the daily realities of millions of families.

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for the workers who are mothers, the problem of time has an additional, structural, and profoundly unfair dimension.