Mexico sets new work-from-home rules, including that employers pay for Internet

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico's Labor Department issued new rules Friday requiring employers to pay for Internet and provide ergonomic chairs for employees working from home.

The new rules also mandate a “right to disconnect” for employees who work at least 40% of their time from remote locations.

Remote workers often complain that, because they are constantly reachable at home, they are also constantly asked to work.

Mexico, like many other countries, saw a big increase in remote working during the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 and 2021.

While office space occupancy is inching back up, remote work seems to be a trend that has caught on.

The trend is so pronounced that some office buildings on bustling downtown boulevards are being converted into apartments, hospitals and stores.

The Labor Department said bosses are responsible for paying for the electricity, printers and other equipment used when working at home.

According to the new rules, if an employee's home isn't safe, well-lit, and well-ventilated, they can't be forced to work there.

Inspectors can visit a worker's home, or employees may be asked to take pictures of their home, to prove that it meets labor requirements.

Remote workers cannot be paid less than those who go to an office, and they must have set work hours.

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