Voters Back the Schedules That Work Act

By Sabrina Jacobs

Unpredictable work schedules, unscheduled calls, and last-minute shifts can be a burden on families, especially those with young children. Democrats are proposing a bill in order to provide a barrier between work and home, and to protect workers from unreasonable requests. 

A new poll from Data for Progress finds 61 percent of voters support the proposed bill, named the Schedules That Work Act, including 73 percent of Democrats, 57 percent of Independents, and 51 percent of Republicans. 

Sixty-two percent of voters, including 55 percent of Republicans, 57 percent of Independents, and 71 percent of Democrats, support allowing workers to have the right to request schedule changes without the threat of punishment. Stable work schedules would provide financial security and help people better fulfill their duties at work and home. 

However, 28 percent of voters believe that the requirements would make it harder for employers to create schedules, which could lead to understaffing during off-hours and cost businesses valuable dollars if they can't afford to keep people on the clock.

Overall, voters clearly agree that it’s important to protect workers from demands that make it difficult to manage a work/life balance and care for their families. President Biden should support the proposed bill and stand up for American workers. 

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Sabrina Jacobs is a digital fellow at Data for Progress.