MA Lawmakers File 4-Day Work Week Legislation

MASSACHUSETTS — New legislation filed by Massachusetts representatives would create a voluntary four-day workweek pilot program in the state, according to a Monday news release from Rep. Josh S. Cutler, who co-signed the legislation with Rep. Dylan Fernandes.

The two-year program, run by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, would allow businesses to transition employees to a reduced work schedule without an overall reduction in pay, officials said. Participating employers would agree to regular reporting to help study the effects of transitioning employees and businesses to a four-day work week and in return could qualify for a tax credit.

Research indicates that four-day workweek models have the potential to reduce burnout and boost performance among workers without affecting employer productivity, officials said in the news release.

“In this era of tight labor markets, we need to get creative to keep our economy growing,” Rep. Cutler, who serves as House Chairman of the Joint Committee on Labor and Workforce Development, wrote in the release. “This bill creates new incentives for Massachusetts businesses to explore shifting to a four-day work week which can offer a myriad of benefits, including boosting worker satisfaction and productivity, and reducing absenteeism and commuting time.”

Rep. Fernandes added that the idea is to "prioritize workforce health and happiness."

"By creating more time for family, friends, and leisure through a three-day weekend, we can attract and retain top talent, boost productivity, and promote a dynamic and innovative economy that benefits all residents," Fernandes said.

The “Massachusetts Smart Work Week Pilot" study promises to ensure diversity in employers' size, occupation, industry sector, and geographical location and include the participation of veteran, women, and minority-owned businesses and businesses owned by persons with disabilities.

Employers across the state can submit an application to participate, after which they will agree to reduce the hours of all or some of their employees without reducing overall pay, status, or benefits.

“Is the four-day week really the success story for employees, companies, and the climate that research to date suggests? This innovative and well-designed program will answer that question and put Massachusetts at the forefront of a long overdue change in how we work,” Juliet Schor, economist and Professor of Sociology at Boston College, wrote in the release.

Jon Steinman, founder and board member of 4 Day Week US, added that “with this bill, Massachusetts is poised to lead the nation towards a better future."

For more information on the program visit the 4 Day Week US's website.