Louisiana Meal and Rest Break Laws

Although federal law does not mandate that employers must provide meal and rest breaks, some states have enacted different legislation. Learn more about the break requirements in Louisiana.

Do Louisiana Break Laws Differ from Federal Break Laws?

Yes, Louisiana break laws are different from federal break laws. Certain employees must receive breaks.

Louisiana Meal Break Laws

In Louisiana, only minor employees (under the age of 16) must be given a 30-minute meal break when working 5 or more consecutive hours. The meal break can be unpaid if it lasts more than 20 minutes and the employee is relieved of all duties.

Louisiana Break Laws for Minors

As of August 1, 2024, the requirement for providing break laws to minors in Louisiana only includes those under the age of 16 years. Employees who are under 16 must receive a 30-minute break when working 5+ hours.

Louisiana Break Laws for Mothers

Under federal law, nursing mothers are required to 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.

Louisiana Day of Rest Laws

There is no day of rest law in effect in Louisiana.

Louisiana Break Room Requirements

Louisiana employers are not required to provide a break room.

Louisiana Penalties for Breaking Rest and Break Laws

Breaking the break laws that apply to minor employees could subject an employer to a penalty or fine. An employee can also take legal action, which could result in the employer having to pay back wages.

Common Louisiana Break Law FAQs

How early can I take my lunch break in Louisiana?

Only minor employees (under age 16) are required to receive a 30-minute meal break during a shift lasting 5 or more hours. The timing of the break depends on employer discretion.

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

Minor employees would receive one 30-minute break during a 6-hour shift. No requirement is in place for adult employees.

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

Minor employees would receive one 30-minute break during an 8-hour shift. No requirement is in place for adult employees.

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

Minor employees would receive one 30-minute break during a 12-hour shift. No requirement is in place for adult employees.

Is it legal to work 7 days straight in Louisiana?

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

Can I waive my lunch break in Louisiana?

Minor employees may be able to waive their required lunch breaks. The option for an adult employee to waive an employer-provided meal break would be based on the employer’s discretion.

Louisiana Workforce Commission