Flexible Workplace

In a workplace that adheres to the traditional 40-hour workweek, finding a means to get time off is often difficult, especially with the short notice that things such as a child's soccer game or an elderly relative's doctor's appointment tend to yield.  As a result, many working mothers and fathers are forced to work part-time, which also not only cuts into potential wages earned in both the short and long run, but also benefits that would make raising a family easier, including healthcare plans and retirement funds.  Rigid labor laws make it difficult to have many other options. 

Why can't we have flexibility in labor law, making it easier for workers (especially parents with young children and caregivers for elderly parents) to choose alternatives to the traditional 40-hour work week?

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