California representative pushing for 4-day workweek in new congressional bill

RIVERSIDE, Calif. -- The pandemic has changed the way many of us work. Now there's a push in California for a four-day workweek.

Congressman Mark Takano (D-Riverside) has introduced legislation that would reduce the 40 hour week to 32 hours.

The 100-member congressional progressive caucus is supporting Rep. Takano's bill.

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San Francisco tech start-up, Bolt, says it is permanently switching to a 4-day work week. CEO Ryan Breslow says it's leading to higher productivity.

They say it would improve work-life balance.

This new bill would not eliminate the 40 hour work week but would instead require employers to pay overtime after 32 hours.

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"What I'm really aiming for is a new norm, where people actually have a livable wage with fewer days of the week that they have to use to earn it," said Rep. Takano.

Some countries have already adopted the four-day week.

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The COVID-19 pandemic has already changed how millions of Americans do their jobs. Now it may change how many days a week Americans do their jobs.

Japan and Iceland see success with the schedule, while Spain and Scotland have vowed to try it.

Several American companies are already using the four-day workweek and say they have seen increased productivity.

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But opponents say it could destabilize the U.S. economy, putting pressure on businesses.

The legislation is still awaiting a vote.