New legislation co-filed by Rep. Dylan Fernandes (D-Falmouth) and Rep. Josh Cutler (D-Duxbury) would create a four-day work week pilot program in Massachusetts.

The voluntary program would allow businesses to transition employees to a reduced work schedule without an overall reduction in pay. Participating employers would agree to regular reporting to help study the effects of transitioning employees and businesses to a four-day work week and in return could qualify for a tax credit.

Research indicates that four-day work week models have the potential to reduce burnout and boost performance among workers without affecting employer productivity. This legislation creates a two year pilot program run by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development to study the issue here in Massachusetts.