Mexico's Senate approved a constitutional reform on February 11, 2026, reducing the weekly workweek from 48 to 40 hours, with gradual implementation until 2030. The initiative, proposed by President Claudia Sheinbaum, passed by majority and was sent immediately to the Chamber of Deputies. It preserves one day off per six worked, without salary cuts.
On February 10, 2026, the Senate's united committees on Constitutional Points, Labor and Social Welfare, and Legislative Studies approved the reform unanimously, benefiting 13.5 million workers. Mexico ranks among OECD countries with the highest annual working hours, exceeding 2,100, and 27% of the employed population works over 48 hours weekly. WHO and ILO studies link prolonged shifts to risks of heart attacks, stress, and psychosocial illnesses, affecting 75% of Mexican workers.
On February 11, the Senate plenary began discussion at 13:15, with lawmakers' interventions. It passed unanimously in general, and with 103 votes in favor and 15 against in particular, amending Article 123, Section A, of the Constitution. The reduction is gradual: 48 hours in 2026, 46 in 2027, 44 in 2028, 42 in 2029, and 40 in 2030. It ensures no salary loss and redefines overtime: up to 12 hours weekly, paid at 100% extra, and 200% if exceeded, banned for under-18s.
The opposition, including Movimiento Ciudadano (MC), supported but demanded two rest days. 'We're being given cat for hare,' said MC's Ivonne Ortega, criticizing the gradual rollout and single day off. MC's Clemente Castañeda questioned: 'Is one day of rest sufficient?'. PAN's Marko Cortés called it 'half justice,' urging immediate implementation and fiscal incentives. PRI's Carolina Viggiano highlighted fiscal risks and lack of union support.
Morena's Óscar Cantón Zetina rebutted: 'Now they have great haste to help workers, after denying them minimum wage for so long.' Morena's Ruth González argued it strengthens Mexico's position in North America. Morenista Alfonso Zepeda Salas viewed it as 'another labor conquest' under Sheinbaum.
The minute reached the Chamber of Deputies, where PAN's president Kenia López announced its referral to Constitutional Points and Labor committees. The plenary authorized immediate processing by show of hands, to expedite without awaiting Tuesday's ordinary session. Morena's Ricardo Monreal stated legal timelines would be followed, prioritizing the presidential initiative.
