In Illinois, almost 140 years ago, the 8-hour workday was first established as a legal requirement.
The 8-Hour Workday First Became a Law in Illinois
In 1886, the Illinois legislature passed a law requiring an 8-hour workday. However, numerous employers in Chicago refused to adhere to this mandate, resulting in a violent strike by workers.
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The Haymarket Riot, a significant event in Illinois’ history, originated from a labor demonstration that turned fatal when a bomb claimed the lives of twelve individuals. This incident is still remembered annually on May 1 in numerous nations (Wikipedia).
40-hour Workweek Has Been a Law for 86 Years
The concept of the 40-hour workweek didn’t simply appear out of nowhere. It was born from the efforts of labor movements that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These determined individuals took to the streets, advocating for fair treatment and the opportunity to enjoy a more balanced life.
Most Americans in 1905 worked long hours, typically ranging from 12 to 14 hours a day (Wikipedia). In those times, before smartphones became an indispensable part of our daily lives, people dedicated themselves to their work with utmost commitment.
In 1938, the Fair Labor Standards Act became law, mandating that employers compensate employees with overtime pay when they exceeded a 44-hour work week.
Could 32-Hour Work Week Become Illinois Law?
A new bill has the potential to turn the dream of a 4-day work week into a reality for many individuals.
A bill has been proposed to establish a 32-hour work week as a legal framework in America, as reported by ABC7.
The fact that so many people are going to work exhausted, physically and mentally, and the fact that we have not changed the Fair Labor Standards Act. This was in 1940 — we came up with a 40-hour work week — 1940. -Senator Bernie Sanders
Senator Bernie Sanders has introduced the 32-hour work week act, with the backing of Florida Senator Butler and California House of Representative Mark Takano.
What are your thoughts on a 32-hour work week? Are there any specific occupations that cannot be restricted to just 32 hours?
