The House of Representatives passed legislation authored by Rep. Todd Young, R-Ind., on Thursday.
The bill, entitled the Save The American Workers Act,would change the Affordable Care Act definition of a full-time work week from 30 hours to 40 hours.
Doing so would enable companies to have part time employees that work up to 39 hours per week without providing them health care coverage.
"By simply repealing this provision and restoring the traditional 40-hour work week, we can help make an America that works," Young said on the House floor Wednesday.
The measure passed with a 248-179 vote in the House.
Sen. Joe Donnelly, D-Ind., has filed similar legislation in the Senate.