PSOE and Sumar presented a proposal to move toward a 37.5 hour work week across the economy. The plan sparked debate as part of the government formation talks. The change would not take full effect immediately; the timeline aims to begin in 2017 with staged milestones planned for earlier phases and consolidation later. Pedro Sánchez has secured the necessary political support for the reform, and the shift is expected to influence salaries, though the initial framework suggests no immediate salary reductions.
Analysts estimate that the reform would impact more than 12 million private sector workers who currently clock in 40 hours a week. At present, only about 16.7 percent of private sector employees enjoy a 37.5 hour or shorter work week. The plan envisages gradual implementation: a maximum workday of 38.5 hours in 2024, followed by a consolidation at 37.5 hours in 2025. The proposal also calls for a 150 hour-per-year cap on overtime, increasing the annual allowance from 1,950 hours to the 1,800 hours proposed by both parties.
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union support
Unions welcomed the plan, noting that salaries would be preserved even as hours shorten. The adjustment benefits both full-time workers and those who are part-time, who would see the salary framework more favorable as hours decline.
Niño Becerra commented on the move to shorter hours in Spain, highlighting that every company faces its own dynamics. The measure is expected to increase the value of each hour worked. While some employers express concern about potential government changes, the minimum interprofessional wage would stay unchanged. Under the new offer, the current wage structure, set at 1,080 euros gross per month in 14 payments (15,120 euros gross per year) and 1,260 euros gross per month with extra payments, would see the value per hour rise from 8.45 euros to 9.04 euros.