The topic was discussed in the Senate’s Social Affairs panel; text authorizes the use of clothing, accessories and symbols in the workplace
The CAS (Commission on Social Affairs) of the Senate approved on Wednesday (25 March 2026) a project that allows workers the right to adapt their working hours for religious reasons. The matter goes to the plenary of the Upper House.
The , from the former deputy (PE), received a substitute (alternative text) from the senator (PT-RS). The project also authorizes the use of religious clothing, ornaments and symbols in the workplace. The rule applies to private sector workers and public employees.
The change in time on the day of religious observance must be made in agreement with the employer or immediate supervisor. Adaptation can be made: by changing the paid weekly rest day; by increasing daily working hours; or by changing shifts until the hours defined in the employment contract are compensated.
To be entitled to adaptation, the worker must make the request at least 15 days in advance. The employer may reject the request, as long as it presents a reasonable justification related to technical requirements or legal impediments.
If the request is rejected without justification, the private sector worker may request the termination of the employment contract, keeping all labor rights guaranteed. If the request is rejected with justification, the worker may terminate the contract without giving prior notice.
The project also allows the adaptation for religious reasons of registration in public competitions, filling and holding public office, in a permanent capacity or on a commission basis. Furthermore, it prohibits asking candidates, during a job interview, questions about their religion or other questions that could open up discrimination.
For Senator Paulo Paim, the Brazilian State must protect diversity, religious freedom and the right to worship. “The role of state authority is not to remove tension through exclusion or limitation of pluralism, but rather to ensure that religious groups tolerate each other, whenever individual or collective interests are at stake.”said the senator.
With information from .
