The Evolution of the U.S. Workweek from 35 to 40 Hours

The standard workweek in the United States has been defined as 40 hours per week since the passage of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) in 1938. This significant shift from a longer workweek to a 40-hour standard was a result of the combined efforts of the labor movement and government legislation aimed at improving the quality of work life and ensuring fairer compensation for workers.

Before the implementation of the FLSA, many workers were subjected to far longer hours, and the movement for a shorter workweek gained traction starting in the early 20th century. The 40-hour workweek emerged as the norm as a direct response to labor movement efforts to advocate for better working conditions and a better balance between work and personal life.

Historical Context and Legislation

The FLSA, which was enacted during the Great Depression, brought about significant changes in the way work was organized in the United States. The act set the standard workweek at 40 hours and initially established a minimum wage. This was a monumental step toward improving the lives of workers and reducing the oppressive nature of the long workdays that were common at the time.

The U.S. Workweek: Stability and Exceptions

The 40-hour workweek has proven to be a durable standard, with minimal variation over time. Some workers in certain industries, such as engineers, experienced fluctuations in the length of their workweek. For instance, during the Great Depression, the workweek for engineers often fell to 35 hours due to the severe economic downturn. However, during World War II, the workweek length was temporarily extended to 40 hours as a wartime measure. Despite these temporary changes, the 40-hour workweek did not revert back to 35 hours once the war ended.

Contemporary Challenges and Debates

Over the years, the traditional 40-hour workweek has faced various challenges, including the increasing prevalence of zero-hour contracts and the rise of the gig economy. Zero-hour contracts, which provide no guarantee of work, effectively make overtime unnecessary, as employers can call upon workers only when needed. This contrasts sharply with the historical context of the 40-hour workweek, which was designed to ensure a standard minimum requirement of labor.

Moreover, the debate around the standard workweek continues, with some advocating for a reduction in hours, such as the 35-hour workweek. Critics argue that 35 hours are not easily divisible into consistent daily hours, making it impractical for many industries and daily operations. Others point out the significant increase in the workweek length, suggesting that for many American workers, the current norm remains at 70 hours or more.

The Impact of Reaganism

The backlash against the 40-hour workweek was observed during the Reagan administration. The rise of Reaganism often led to a relaxation of labor laws and a shift towards a more flexible, market-driven approach to employment. This period saw a gradual erosion of the 40-hour standard, with some arguing that the workweek should have reduced further to 30 hours by now, had it not been for the economic policies of the time.

Conclusion

The 40-hour workweek in the United States is a standard that has stood the test of time, although it has faced numerous challenges and variations over the years. The shift from 35 to 40 hours was pivotal in addressing the needs of American workers, and while the workweek continues to evolve, the 40-hour standard remains a cornerstone of labor rights and protections.

References

1. U.S. Department of Labor. (1938). Fair Labor Standards Act.

2. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021). Hours Worked in Manufacturing.