Can a four-day workweek help fight jobs crisis?

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When gas prices were high, many companies considered moving to a four-day workweek to save on energy costs. Indeed, many environmentalists believe it is time to change the standard workweek -- which has remained largely the same since 1938 -- to help use less energy, conserve resources, and reduce pollutants.

Last August, Utah implemented a mandatory four-day workweek for its state workers for this reason. New York is now considering doing the same thing, figuring it could save $30 million a year by shortening the workweek. Other counties, townships, municipalities, and even school districts are considering or have implemented a shortened workweek. Atlanta, for example, has cut hours and pay by 10% due to a budgetary shortfall.