Massachusetts lawmakers to discuss bill that would establish four-day workweek

BOSTON — Massachusetts lawmakers on Tuesday are slated to consider a bill that would establish a four-day workweek.

Lawmakers will first look at a proposal to create a pilot program in the state. The bill was originally filed back in April, but the House is just now taking it up, two days before they go on their seven-week holiday break.

If approved, it would create a pilot program to study the concept of a four-day workweek.

Here’s how it would work:

Employers would have to apply and qualify. They’d have to study the benefits and impacts of a four-day workweek and regularly report their findings for at least two years.

By participating in this pilot program, employers would qualify for a tax credit. This would incentivize a variety of companies to join so that experts can study how a shortened work week impacts people in several different industries.

According to the nonprofit “4 Day Week Global,” a four-day workweek can lead to increased productivity, happier employees, and fewer carbon emissions. One of the bill’s sponsors, Representative Dylan Fernandes told Boston 25 News it’s worthwhile to at least study it.

“The data is pretty clear that it shows that employees that are on a four-day workweek are actually more productive, it improves company productivity,” said (D) Rep. Dylan Fernandes. “And not only that, it improves employer retention and helps attract top talent.”

Lawmakers are getting ready to go on their winter break. Fernandes says the bill would need to pass by this summer and then the pilot program would hopefully start the following year, in 2025.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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