Analysis of the Impacts of the Labor Reform: Elizabeth Jiménez’s Interview on Red+ Noticias.

interview Red + Noticias

At Arrubla Devis, we remain committed to rigorous legal analysis of the issues that impact our clients and the country. This time, we share the key takeaways from our attorney Elizabeth Jiménez’s appearance on Red+ Noticias regarding the effects of the recently approved labor reform.

Impact on night-shift and continuous-operation sectors

Elizabeth Jiménez emphasized that the most affected sectors will be those operating during nighttime hours, weekends, and holidays—such as bars, nightclubs, shopping centers, and security companies. The increase in night, Sunday, and holiday surcharges represents a significantly higher labor cost for these businesses compared to those operating during daytime hours from Monday to Saturday.

Risks for small and microenterprises

The labor reform does not differentiate between large and small businesses when applying new labor obligations. This could lead to layoffs, increased informality, and even the closure of companies unable to absorb these additional costs.

New rules for Sena apprentices

Jiménez also warned about the impact of new regulations on Sena apprentices, who will now be considered employees. Companies must choose between assuming the full labor cost of these apprentices or paying a monetary equivalent of 1.5 minimum wages, which could discourage practical training.

Business sector conclusions

Industry groups and business leaders warn that labor costs could rise between 18% and 34%, with a potential loss of up to 450,000 jobs—especially affecting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises.

At Arrubla Devis, we continue to closely monitor the implementation of the labor reform and its effects, to provide our clients with the best legal support for strategic decision-making.

Watch the full Red+ Noticias interview here.