Florida Meal and Rest Break Laws

Although federal law does not mandate the provision of meal and rest breaks, some states have enacted different legislation. Learn more about the meal and rest break requirements in Florida.

Do Florida Break Laws Differ from Federal Break Laws?

Yes, Florida break laws differ from federal break laws. Employers must provide meal breaks in certain circumstances.

Florida Meal Break Laws

Meal breaks are only required for minor employees (under age 18) who work 4+ consecutive hours. Employers must adhere to the regulations outlined in the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) for adult employees when providing meal or rest breaks.

Florida Break Laws for Minors

As mentioned, any minor employee under the age of 18 must receive at least a 30-minute break for every 4 consecutive hours of work.

Florida Break Laws for Mothers

Nursing mothers in Florida must be given reasonable time during work to express breast milk in a private place that is not a restroom. It must be free from intrusion and view. Employers with fewer than 50 employees are exempt from this requirement if it would cause undue hardship.

Florida Day of Rest Laws

Florida has no day of rest law in effect.

Florida Break Room Requirements

There are no requirements in place for providing a break room.

Florida Penalties for Breaking Rest and Break Laws

If an employer violates meal or rest break laws in Florida, an employee may file a wage and hour violation complaint to the state department of labor.

Common Florida Break Law FAQs

How early can I take my lunch break in Florida?

If you are a minor, you may take your lunch break (30 minutes) after working 4 consecutive hours. Meal breaks for adult employees are given at the employer’s discretion.

How many breaks in a 6-hour shift in Florida?

Minor employees would receive one 30-minute break during a 6-hour shift. However, the state does have a law in place regarding when minor employees can work during the day and how many hours per week are permitted.

No requirement is in place for adult employees.

How many breaks in an 8-hour shift in Florida?

Minor employees would receive two 30-minute breaks during an 8-hour shift. However, the state does have a law in place regarding when minor employees can work during the day and how many hours per week are permitted.

No requirement is in place for adult employees.

How many breaks in a 12-hour shift in Florida?

Minor employees would receive three 30-minute breaks during a 12-hour shift. However, the state does have a law in place regarding when minor employees can work during the day and how many hours per week are permitted.

No requirement is in place for adult employees.

Is it legal to work 7 days straight in Florida?

Yes, it is legal to work 7 days straight in Florida.

Can I waive my lunch break in Florida?

Since there is no requirement to provide a lunch break, employers may choose not to offer them to employees. However, company policy would dictate whether an employee can waive a provided meal break.

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