The five day workweek has been the standard since it was codified by the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938. At the time, it was revolutionary.

Since then, labor productivity has more than tripled. What's more, the 40 hour workweek is based on an outdated family model where one partner in a couple worked outside the home while the other stayed home and did all domestic labor. Today, the majority of relationships involve both partners working outside the home.

Make the 32 Hour Workweek Standard

Dozens of countries and thousands of companies have done pilot programs for a 32 hour workweek with no reduction in worker pay.

Research has shown that it improves employee wellbeing by reducing burnout, increasing job satisfaction, and improving mental and physical health. Companies benefit as well, seeing reduced attrition rates and no loss in productivity or, in some cases, increased productivity. In the largest study yet, which included 141 companies, 90% of companies that participated in the 6-month pilot program kept the four day workweek.

This will not be a one-size-fits-all policy, and it will be important to ensure it can be equitably implemented both for salaried and hourly workers.