Mississippi Meal and Rest Break Laws

aAlthough federal law does not require employers to provide meal and rest breaks, some states have unique legislation in effect. Learn more about the meal and rest break requirements in Mississippi.

Do Mississippi Break Laws Differ from Federal Break Laws?

No, Mississippi defers to federal law regarding the provision of meal and rest breaks to employees.

Mississippi Meal Break Laws

There is no law in effect in Mississippi that requires an employer to provide a meal or rest break to an employee. However, any breaks offered must be in accordance with federal regulations:

• Breaks may be unpaid if they last 30+ minutes and relieve the employee of all duties
• Breaks lasting less than 20 minutes must be paid

Mississippi Break Laws for Minors

There is no law requiring minor employees to receive breaks.

Mississippi Break Laws for Mothers

Under federal law, nursing mothers 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 may be exempt from this requirement if it would cause undue hardship.

Mississippi Day of Rest Laws

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

Mississippi Break Room Requirements

Employers in Mississippi are not required to provide a break room.

Mississippi 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 Mississippi Break Law FAQs

How early can I take my lunch break in Mississippi?

If an employer provides you with a lunch break, the timing would be at their discretion as no law mandates it.

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

No break requirement is in place for employees in Mississippi.

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

No break requirement is in place for employees in Mississippi.

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

No break requirement is in place for employees in Mississippi.

Is it legal to work 7 days straight in Mississippi?

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

Can I waive my lunch break in Mississippi?

You may be able to waive an employer-offered meal break, but it might require mutual consent in writing.

Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES)