Mandates the workweek be reduced to 32 hrs. Rate of pay for a 32 hr workweek remains the same as the rate of pay for 40 hrs. Work in excess of 32 hrs in any one workweek qualify for overtime pay. Does not apply to employers with less than 500 employees.

Rhode Island 32-Hour Workweek Bill Summary

This bill, called the Health and Safe Families Workplaces Act, would shorten the standard workweek from 40 hours to 32 hours for employees at large companies in Rhode Island. Importantly, workers would not take a pay cut — they would continue to receive the same pay they currently earn for 40 hours, just for working 8 fewer hours per week. Any time worked beyond 32 hours in a single week would be considered overtime, meaning employees would earn extra pay for those additional hours.

The law would only apply to employers with 500 or more employees, so small and medium-sized businesses would not be affected. Large corporations and major employers operating in Rhode Island would need to restructure their standard schedules and payroll to comply with the new rules if the bill becomes law.

This legislation would affect a significant number of workers and large employers across the state. Workers at qualifying companies could potentially enjoy shorter workweeks with the same income, while large employers would face higher labor costs if they require employees to work more than 32 hours. Businesses might respond by hiring additional staff, reducing hours, or paying more in overtime.

Currently, the bill has been referred to the House Labor Committee and has been recommended to be held for further study, meaning it has not yet advanced through the legislative process. A hearing is scheduled for February 2026, so it remains in early stages and is not yet law.