FEDERAL 32 HOUR WORKWEEK BILL WOULD CHANGE OVERTIME RULES, NOT AUTOMATICALLY CREATE A 4 DAY WEEK

FEDERAL 32 HOUR WORKWEEK BILL WOULD CHANGE OVERTIME RULES, NOT AUTOMATICALLY CREATE A 4 DAY WEEK

New legislation in Congress would gradually lower the federal overtime threshold for many nonexempt workers from 40 hours to 32 hours a week over 4 years. The proposal, led in the House by Rep. Mark Takano and backed in the Senate by Sen. Bernie Sanders, would not require every workplace to close after 4 days. It would instead require covered employers to pay overtime once eligible employees pass the new weekly threshold. Supporters argue productivity gains should translate into more time or higher pay for workers. Opponents warn that employers could cut hours, raise prices or slow hiring to manage added labor costs. For Lubbock hospitals, retailers, restaurants, farms and small businesses, the practical effect would depend on employee classification and any final exemptions. The bill is only a proposal and has not become law.

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