Working on May 1st: Senate passes bill authorizing work for bakers and florists, reigniting debate

The French Senate has approved a government bill that permits bakers and florists to employ staff on May 1st, a public holiday traditionally observed as a day of rest. The legislation, described by the center-right majority as a "common sense" measure, now moves to the National Assembly, where further contentious debates are expected.

The bill seeks to address what the government calls "persistent legal insecurity" for small businesses. Minister of Labor Jean-Pierre Farandou stated the law provides "legal security, practical intelligence, and respect for our social history." He explained that the measure would allow voluntary employees in artisanal bakeries and florists to work, provided a branch agreement sets the terms. Employees would still receive double pay, as currently mandated by law.

This move comes after a period of legal ambiguity stemming from a 2006 court ruling that restricted work on May 1st to essential services like hospitals and transportation. Left-wing parties and unions, however, view the bill as a "breach" that could lead to further erosion of social rights. They argue it undermines the significance of the only mandatory public holiday in France and represents an attack by employers and the government against workers' protections.