Quintana Roo’s Chair Law: What Businesses Need to Know

Cancún, Quintana Roo — The so-called "Chair Law" officially came into force on Tuesday, June 17, prompting businesses across Quintana Roo to begin adapting their internal regulations to comply with the new mandate.

The Mexican Employers' Confederation (Coparmex) in Quintana Roo confirmed that preparations have been underway to align workplace policies with the reform. Jovita Portillo Navarro, president of the business organization, stated that these adjustments primarily affect workplaces such as restaurants, supermarkets, convenience stores, and similar establishments.

José Julio Villarreal Zapata, president of the National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (Canirac) in Cancún and Quintana Roo, elaborated on the sector's plans. "Employees will be granted rest periods as stipulated in our revised internal work regulations, which must be modified within 180 days from today, the day this reform takes effect," he said.

Training sessions for Canirac members will focus on proper implementation of these rest periods to avoid regulatory violations. Villarreal emphasized that the industry is prepared to adhere to the new requirements.

Key Provisions of the Chair Law

The Chair Law amends the Federal Labor Law (LFT), recognizing workers' right to rest during their shifts and mandating employers to provide backrest-equipped seating for breaks. Additionally, the revised LFT prohibits companies from requiring employees to remain standing for their entire workday.

Businesses now have a 180-day grace period, starting June 17, to update their internal policies. The deadline for compliance is December 14, 2025.