Some lawmakers want to see a 32-hour work week become the standard in the United States.
“The sad reality is, Americans now work more hours than the people of any other wealthy nation,” said Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders.
Sanders is an advocate for making the four day work week a standard in the U.S., but it’s something one Las Vegas business is already practicing.
“This is a true four day work week,” said Owen Lawrie, one of the owners of Uplift Hospice.” It’s four [eight hour days], not four [ten hour days]. So it really is an extra 52 days off a year.”
Uplift Hospice is a company that provides at-home hospice care. He says the schedule is not only beneficial to employees, but to their patients as well.
“Because they are so appreciative of that extra day, the teamwork’s even better and then the quality of care just continues to be excellent,” he said.
Lawrie’s mom, a co-owner of the business, agrees.
“Having this extra day, especially during the week, gives you the opportunity to take care of your chores, if you will,” said Jennifer Lawrie. “But also time to spend with family, hobbies, things you enjoy doing and really refreshes you and makes you feel good about what you are doing everyday and are motivated to help.”
One of Uplift’s licensed practical nurses says the extra day provides a great work-life balance.
“Overall it’s a less stress environment and gives you more energy,” said Kelvin Galang. “Hopefully it’s gonna change how other companies do it. It’s a game changer.”
Not everyone thinks this is a great idea.
Senator Bill Cassidy from Louisiana says he’s worried it could hurt businesses, but a lot of European countries have already been doing it.
Belgium has a four-day work week and France has a 35-hour work week.
