Fair Work Schedules

Today, millions of people—disproportionately women and people of color—are working in essential but low-paying jobs with schedules that are unpredictable, unstable, and inflexible. Workers in these jobs often have little notice of their work schedules, experience last-minute shift cancellations that deprive them of vital income, and work “clopening” shifts that leave little time to commute, let alone rest, between shifts. Many jobs offer only part-time work, despite many workers’ need for full-time hours.

Women are disproportionately affected by the problems caused by unstable schedules because women not only hold the majority of low-paid jobs but also still shoulder the majority of caregiving responsibilities. And research shows that unpredictable schedules can exacerbate the gender pay gap, increase economic insecurity, harm the health of workers and their families, negatively impact child development, and much more.

Luckily, there is a way to improve the lives of workers, while also helping employers’ bottom lines. Laws that provide stable work schedules—often called fair workweek laws—provide workers with stability, predictability, and input into when they work. Consistent hours and advance notice of schedules make it easier for employees to plan transportation, child care, doctor’s appointments, and other obligations so that they can consistently be and stay at work. This predictability creates a more stable, reliable workforce for businesses, and it generates cost savings from reduced turnover and absenteeism.

Resources

NWLC has published several comprehensive resources that outline the range of difficult work schedules facing workers in low-paid jobs, the particular impact on women, and how policymakers can best address these harms through legislation.

Federal Legislation

The Schedules That Work Act and the Part-Time Workers Bill of Rights Act would address the problems caused by unfair scheduling practices and promote the equity and stability that working families need.

State and Local Legislation

There is growing movement in states and cities across the country to pass laws that improve workplace scheduling practices so that working people and their families can better plan their lives.