Maine Meal and Rest Break Laws

Although federal law does not mandate the provision of meal and rest breaks, some states have enacted different legislation. Find out what laws are in effect in Maine.

Do Maine Break Laws Differ from Federal Break Laws?

Yes, Maine break laws are different from federal break laws. Employers are generally required to provide breaks to employees working 6 or more hours.

Maine Meal Break Laws

Employees who work 6 or more consecutive hours must be allowed to take a 30-minute consecutive break. If the employee is completely relieved of duties, then the break can be unpaid.

Some exceptions apply.

• Employers with three (3) or fewer employees on duty at a time are exempt from the meal break requirement, but must allow them to take frequent shorter breaks.
• If an employee break would be a danger to property, life, public safety, or public health, it isn’t required.
• When a collective bargaining or employer-employee agreement dictates otherwise

Maine Break Laws for Minors

The same meal break law in effect for adult employees also applies to minors (under age 18). Maine does have laws in effect around when minors can work and how many hours they are permitted to work (changes based on whether school is in session).

Maine Break Laws for Mothers

Under federal law, nursing mothers in Maine 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. Employers with fewer than 50 employees may be exempt from this requirement if it would cause undue hardship.

Maine Day of Rest Laws

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

Maine Break Room Requirements

Maine employers are not required to provide a break room.

Maine Penalties for Breaking Rest and Break Laws

Violating the federal legislation regarding the provision of meal and rest breaks subjects an employer to criminal prosecution and a fine. Employees may also file legal suits against employers, subjecting them to paying back wages.

Common Maine Break Law FAQs

How early can I take my lunch break in Maine?

You must receive a 30-minute meal break if you are working 6+ consecutive hours. However, the law doesn’t dictate the timing of the break, so your employer would determine when you can take it.

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

Employees in Maine must receive one 30-minute break during a 6-hour shift.

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

Employees in Maine must receive one 30-minute break during an 8-hour shift.

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

Employees in Maine must receive one 30-minute break during a 12-hour shift.

Is it legal to work 7 days straight in Maine?

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

Can I waive my lunch break in Maine?

Yes, if you and your employer agree that you can waive your lunch break in writing. A collective bargaining agreement can also allow you to waive a meal break.

Maine Department of Labor