Mexico labor bill would loosen hiring, union grip

MEXICO CITY (AP) — A proposal to reform Mexico’s dysfunctional, 1970s-era labor laws, loosen work rules and increase union democracy split Mexican political parties Tuesday, threatening to create the first big political battle for President-elect Enrique Pena Nieto.

Advocates say the reform, which will allow part-time work, hourly wages and outsourcing, will help Mexico create the million new jobs per year it needs for young people and migrants returning from the United States. The bill weakens seniority provisions, and leaves unchanged Mexico’s 5 ?-day work week.