The LFT stipulates a double payment independent of the normal salary if a person works on a mandatory day of rest. (Freepik).
In Mexico, the Federal Labor Law (LFT) establishes that May 1, Labor Day, is designated for a mandatory rest that working people can take, regardless of the day of the week on which it occurs. The legislation ensures that employees have these rights and can collect their respective salaries if they go to their workplace. In this case, the pay exceeds the normal daily rate.
The importance of labor laws lies in the protection of labor rights and the well-being of Mexican workers, promoting a balance between work and personal life. These legal provisions reinforce the importance of observing mandatory rest days and ensure that those who sacrifice their rest for the benefit of work are adequately compensated.
As established in Article 74 of the LFT, May 1 is recognized as an official holiday that must be respected by all labor sectors, including educational institutions. Furthermore, Article 75 of the same law provides that employees who must work on a holiday receive compensation equivalent to double their usual daily salary, regardless of the pay corresponding to the mandatory rest. This implies a prior organization between employers and workers to determine who will be required to work during these dates.
Labor Day is commemorated on May 1, which is why there will be a holiday in Mexico. If they work without the corresponding pay, workers may file complaints with PROFEDET. (Infobae Mexico / Jesús Avilés)
Furthermore, the legislation states that if the mandatory day of rest coincides with Sunday, a common situation in various sectors, the employer is obliged to pay this Sunday bonus of 25% of the normal salary to its workers. This measure not only encourages respect for weekly rest but also protects the work well-being of employees.
Workers without double payment for working on May 1 have the option of making a complaint to the Federal Labor Defense Attorney’s Office (PROFEDET). This entity is responsible for offering legal advice and, in the event of failure to establish an agreement, the conflict may be resolved by the corresponding court. This process focuses on ensuring that companies or employers comply with the obligation to remunerate their employees according to the law for working on holidays.
For those employees who face this situation, PROFEDET has set up telephone lines and an email, through which they can submit their complaints. Available numbers are 01800 911 7877 and 01800 717 2942; You can also send an email to orientacionprofedet@stps.gob.mx. Failure by employers to comply with this requirement may result in legal action.
