Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) has called for a “serious discussion” about pursuing a four-day workweek, citing the recent strike by the United Auto Workers (UAW) union as a catalyst for such conversations. The UAW initiated a strike against major automakers last week, demanding increased wages, shorter workweeks, and better retirement benefits.

Sanders pointed to the potential benefits of implementing a four-day workweek, particularly in light of the expected rise in worker productivity due to advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics. He questioned who would reap the rewards of increased productivity and stressed the importance of ensuring that workers benefit from these gains.

Proponents of the four-day workweek argue that it can enhance worker productivity by providing employees with more time off. A study conducted last year on 33 companies globally that experimented with this approach found that all of them continued to adopt the policy.

Although a survey conducted in June revealed that more than half of U.S. employers are open to the idea of a four-day workweek, the majority have been hesitant to implement such a policy. A bill in Maryland supporting the change was put on hold earlier this year.

Sanders emphasized the potential advantages of a four-day workweek, including more time for family, cultural activities, and education. He emphasized that the benefits of increased productivity should be shared with workers.

In conclusion, Sanders’s call for a serious discussion on the four-day workweek comes at a time when workers are demanding better treatment and improved work-life balance. As technology continues to advance, the question of how workers will benefit from increased productivity becomes increasingly important.

Sources:
– The Hill