Civil Law

Five Compliance Reminders on Meal and Rest Breaks to Protect Against Costly Claims

California employers continue to face heavy scrutiny and litigation regarding their meal and rest break practices. Since the Brinker Restaurant Group v. Superior Court decision in 2012, courts have reaffirmed that compliance is measured by strict timing rules, not just having written policies in place. Here are five key reminders on the timing requirements and related obligations for meal and rest breaks in California:

1. Timing of Breaks

Meal Breaks
The Brinker decision makes it clear:

  • First meal break must
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Civil Law

New York Requires Paid Lactation Breaks and Prenatal Leave (US)

New York’s recently approved 2024 – 2025 budget brings two major changes to the landscape of leave and accommodation laws that New York employers need to know about.

Paid Lactation Breaks

Effective June 19, 2024, all private sector employers (regardless of size) will be required to provide 30 minutes of paid break time to employees who need to express breast milk for a nursing child at work. Employees must also be allowed to use any existing paid break or meal … Read the rest