- There is no federal requirement for employers to offer meal or rest breaks, and state law varies considerably.
- Employers who violate meal and rest break laws could incur significant penalties, including premium payments, employee back pay and reputational damage.

- Extending meal and rest breaks beyond the legally required minimum could boost employee morale, retention and overall productivity.
- This article is for small business owners who want to devise a meal and rest break policy that is both compliant with state laws and beneficial for their business.