Bernie Sanders’ 4-Day Workweek Plan Draws Warning From Business Group

Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., is renewing his effort to establish a 32-hour workweek, arguing that advances in artificial intelligence and automation should allow American workers to benefit from increased productivity.

According to FOX Business, Sanders and Rep. Mark Takano, D-Calif., announced Tuesday that they would reintroduce legislation calling for a standard 32-hour workweek with no reduction in pay or benefits.

The proposal would gradually lower the federal standard from 40 hours to 32 hours over four years.

The legislation would also change when overtime applies, with workers becoming eligible for overtime pay after 32 hours rather than 40. Sanders has connected the proposal to the rapid development of AI, saying workers should receive a share of the gains created by new technology.

The renewed push has drawn criticism from Club for Growth President David McIntosh, who argued that a federally mandated shorter workweek could have unintended consequences for employees.

Speaking with Stuart Varney on "Varney & Co.," McIntosh said AI could increase productivity and wages but argued that requiring employers to reduce hours without cutting pay could put jobs and benefits at risk.

"AI will make people more productive, and they'll get paid more, but Bernie's idea will hurt the very workers he's trying to help," McIntosh said, according to FOX Business. "A lot of people will lose their job, lose their benefits when they implement something like that."

McIntosh also argued that the proposal could increase costs for businesses and consumers. He characterized the plan as part of a broader economic agenda that he believes could make life less affordable for Americans.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins also criticized the proposal during an appearance on "The Sunday Briefing." She said she views work as an important part of the American experience and questioned the idea of moving toward a four-day workweek.

"We believe in the dignity of work," Rollins said. "The American dream does not include a four-day work week from my perspective, at least."

Sanders has continued making AI and employment a central part of his economic agenda. His office has argued that technological gains should benefit workers rather than primarily benefiting companies and wealthy investors.

The renewed debate now centers on whether AI-driven productivity gains can support shorter working hours without creating new costs or employment concerns for American workers.

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