THE REGULATION OF REMOTE WORK: ADAPTATION OF LEGAL NORMS TO NEW REALITIES IN IMPERATRIZ- MA

Abstract

In this article, I analyzed the evolution and legal challenges of remote work in Brazil, with a special focus on the transformations that occurred after the Covid-19 pandemic. The study aimed to understand how labor legislation and the socioeconomic reality of medium-sized cities, such as Imperatriz-MA, influence the consolidation of telework. I adopted a qualitative and exploratory methodology, based on bibliographical research, documentary analysis and jurisprudence study of the Regional Labor Court of the 16th Region. I identified that the 2017 Labor Reform represented a normative advance in recognizing telework, but there are still gaps regarding time control, right to disconnection and protection of personal data. The results showed that telework enhances productive flexibility and digital inclusion, but also increases risks of overload, isolation and precarization, especially in contexts with limited technological infrastructure. In Imperatriz, companies have been adopting hybrid models, although challenges remain related to connectivity, professional qualification and contractual formalization. I conclude that the effectiveness of telework depends on public policies of digital inclusion, legislative updating and strengthening the organizational culture focused on the well-being of workers, ensuring a balance between innovation, productivity and human dignity.