Lunch Breaks in NJ

System

Am I correct that the federal government does not mandate lunch breaks, regardless of hours worked?

What about New Jersey? I thought I was told that a lunch break was mandatory, but I can't find anything about it on the NJ web site.

Thanks,

Eve

Shadowfax

You are correct on Fed law. Can't help with NJ.

Bess

You are also correct about New Jersey. An employer is not required to give a break to anyone over 18 years of age. Under 18, the rules are very specific as to how long a minor can work and how long the break must be. However, you do not have to pay for breaks under any circumstances.

System

Thank you,

Eve

njjel

I may stand corrected in the future but I'm pretty certain I remember that NJ says any brake given less that 20 minutes is to be paid. DOL in NJ says no lunch breaks or other breaks are required unless a minor.

System

Thanks. Yes, that's my understanding.

The 20 minute rule is difficult in terms of smoking breaks. It leaves us open to abuse.

njjel

I hope the spelling police isn't watching this morning. I spelled break incorrectly in my earlier post and found we have 30 minutes only to edit our remarks! Oops!