Pennsylvania House Bill HB1065

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/28/23
• Refer: 4/28/23

Caption

Establishing the Four-Day Workweek Pilot Program; providing for tax credits to qualifying employers; imposing duties on the Department of Labor and Industry and the Department of Revenue; and making an appropriation.

Impact

The proposed program will likely have a significant impact on state labor laws by introducing a framework for a four-day workweek and offering tax credits to employers who adopt this model. Through this pilot program, the Department of Labor and Industry will gather data on the effects of such a workweek on both employees and employers, including aspects like employee retention, mental health, and overall productivity. The funding appropriated for this initiative amounts to $15 million annually, which signals a substantial investment into exploring modern work practices and their implications.

Summary

House Bill 1065 establishes the Four-Day Workweek Pilot Program in Pennsylvania, which aims to study and promote the implementation of a reduced workweek for both private and public employers. This bill incentivizes participation through tax credits for qualifying employers who agree to the program's conditions. It is designed to support the exploration of a more flexible work schedule, potentially improving employee satisfaction and productivity while maintaining salary levels and benefits.

Sentiment

Public and legislative sentiment around HB 1065 appears to be cautiously optimistic. Supporters argue that a four-day workweek could enhance work-life balance and lead to increased employee morale, which can translate into better job performance. Nonetheless, there are concerns regarding the practicality of a four-day workweek, how it will affect workloads and operational efficiency, and whether all sectors can adapt to such a change without negative consequences.

Contention

Notable points of contention include discussions around the feasibility of implementing a shorter workweek, particularly in industries where continuous operation is essential. Critics advocate for careful consideration regarding how such changes would affect employee workloads and whether employees would truly benefit from the transition or if it could lead to increased pressure to maintain productivity in a compressed timeframe. The debate highlights the tension between innovative labor practices and established work norms.