The 6×1 Work Schedule Moves a Step Closer to Ending in Brazil
Brazil · WORK
Key Facts
- —Proposal PEC 221/2019
- —Senate step Sent to CCJ committee in mid-August 2026
- —Rapporteur Senator Omar Aziz (PSD-AM)
- —Chamber approval Passed in May 2026
- —Transition period 60 days under Senate discussion
Six days on, one day off, could give way to a 40-hour week and two days of rest.
The 6×1 work schedule moves a step closer to ending in Brazil as the Senate begins formal review of a constitutional amendment. Senator Davi Alcolumbre, president of the Senate, sent the proposal to the constitution and justice committee (CCJ) in mid-August 2026.
What Is the 6×1 Work Schedule?
The 6×1 work schedule means six consecutive days of work and only one day of rest each week. This arrangement is common in many sectors across Brazil, often affecting retail and service workers.
The proposed amendment, known as PEC 221/2019, would end this pattern. It would cut the maximum working week from 44 hours to 40 hours, with no reduction in pay.
Senate Committee Takes Up the Proposal
Senate President Davi Alcolumbre sent PEC 221/2019 to the constitution and justice committee, the CCJ. That happened around 14 to 15 August 2026.
This step came after the Chamber of Deputies had already approved the text. A week later, on Friday 21 August 2026, the committee got its rapporteur.
He is Senator Omar Aziz, of the PSD in Amazonas. The rapporteur writes the committee’s opinion, which shapes what colleagues vote on.
Key Changes Proposed by the Amendment
PEC 221/2019 would abolish the 6×1 schedule. It sets 5×2 as the national reference, meaning five days of work and two of rest.
It guarantees at least two paid rest days a week, with one preferably on Sunday. In addition, the amendment sets a floor of 40 hours per week.
It does not abolish collective bargaining on specific rosters. Special schedules stay possible, as long as the average of two paid rest days holds within the same month.
Chamber of Deputies Approval
The Chamber of Deputies approved PEC 221/19 in first and second rounds on Wednesday 27 May 2026. This approval included a 60-day transition period after promulgation.
However, the Senate is now discussing whether to remove that transition period. On 1 July 2026, G1 reported that Alcolumbre argued for immediate effect, but this is not yet a confirmed change.
Senate President’s Priorities
Alcolumbre has listed the amendment among his priority items. He said on 12 August 2026 that he would talk to senators about moving it forward.
Therefore, the dispatch to the CCJ and the naming of a rapporteur are concrete steps. Still, no voting date has been set, and the timeline remains open.
Understanding the Legislative Process
A PEC, or proposta de emenda à Constituição, is a proposed constitutional amendment. In Brazil, it needs approval in two rounds in both chambers of Congress.
The CCJ is the first stop in the Senate. The rapporteur’s opinion will guide the committee’s decision, which then goes to the full Senate floor.
What Happens Next?
The CCJ will now review the amendment, with Senator Omar Aziz as rapporteur. His opinion will be crucial, as it shapes the text that senators vote on.
Meanwhile, the discussion over the transition period continues. If the Senate removes the 60-day transition, the changes would take effect immediately on promulgation.
That is still under debate.
Potential Impact on Workers
The end of the 6×1 work schedule would give workers more rest days. It would also reduce the maximum working hours without cutting pay, a significant change for many.
For example, workers in sectors with special schedules could still have Sundays or Saturdays worked, but they would need to be compensated. The average of two paid rest days per week must be maintained within the same month.
Final Thoughts on the 6×1 Work Schedule
The 6×1 work schedule is a step closer to ending, but the process is not complete. The Senate’s review will determine the final shape of the amendment.
In short, the proposal has cleared the Chamber and is now in the Senate’s hands. The coming weeks will show how senators handle this significant change to Brazil’s labor rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 6×1 work schedule mean?
The 6×1 work schedule means six consecutive days of work and only one day of rest each week. This is a common pattern in many jobs in Brazil.
What is PEC 221/2019?
PEC 221/2019 is a proposed constitutional amendment that would abolish the 6×1 schedule. It would reduce the maximum working week from 44 hours to 40 hours without cutting pay.
Who is the rapporteur for the amendment in the Senate?
Senator Omar Aziz of the PSD party in Amazonas was named rapporteur on 21 August 2026. He will write the committee’s opinion on the amendment.
Has the transition period been removed?
No, the transition period is still under discussion. The Chamber’s version includes a 60-day transition, but the Senate is considering removing it.
Connected Coverage
Sources: Brazilian Senate; G1; Agência Senado; Diap.
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