Brazil Congress backs shorter working week ahead of Lula runoff

The measure, passed by lawmakers in Brasília, represents a significant legislative victory for Lula's administration as the leftist president prepares for the second-round ballot in the country's polarized election cycle. The shorter working week has long been a priority for labor unions and progressive lawmakers in Brazil, who argue the change would improve workers' quality of life and create additional employment opportunities.

Lula's political team views the congressional approval as a potential boost to voter enthusiasm ahead of the runoff contest. The timing of the measure's passage reflects the government's efforts to consolidate support among key constituencies, particularly organized labor and working-class voters who form a critical base of support for the president.

The legislation marks a rare moment of consensus in Brazil's fractious Congress, where deep political divisions have often stalled major policy initiatives. Labor advocates have framed the shorter working week as essential reform to modernize Brazil's labor standards and improve worker protections in an increasingly competitive global economy.

Details regarding implementation timelines and the specific reduction in weekly working hours were not immediately specified in congressional announcements. The measure now moves toward further procedural steps in the legislative process before taking effect.