Nebraska 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 Michigan.

Do Nebraska Break Laws Differ from Federal Break Laws?

Yes, state law does mandate the provision of breaks but only for employees working in specific industries or roles.

Nebraska Meal Break Laws

Employees working in assembling plants, workshops, and mechanical establishments are required to receive a break lasting at least 30 minutes per 8-hour shift.

There are no break laws in place for employees in other places of work. However, employers that provide breaks to employees must ensure compliance with federal requirements:

• 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

Nebraska Break Laws for Minors

Unless a minor employee is working in one of the places outlined above, they are not required to receive breaks.

Nebraska 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.

Nebraska Day of Rest Laws

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

Nebraska Break Room Requirements

Nebraska workplaces are not required to include a break room.

Nebraska 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 Nebraska Break Law FAQs

How early can I take my lunch break in Nebraska?

Only mechanical establishment, workshop, and assembling plant employees are required to receive breaks. This break must last at least 30 minutes per 8-hour shift, but the timing is based on employer discretion.

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

There is no requirement to provide a break during a 6-hour shift in Nebraska.

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

Only mechanical establishment, workshop, and assembling plant employees are required to receive a 30-minute break during an 8-hour shift.

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

Only mechanical establishment, workshop, and assembling plant employees are required to receive a 30-minute break during an 12-hour shift.

Is it legal to work 7 days straight in Nebraska?

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

Can I waive my lunch break in Nebraska?

In most cases, employees are allowed to waive an employer-offered meal break.

Nebraska Department of Labor