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New Jersey 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 New Jersey.
Do New Jersey Break Laws Differ from Federal Break Laws?
Yes, there are unique laws in place regarding employee breaks in New Jersey.
New Jersey Meal Break Laws
New Jersey law only requires employers to provide meal breaks to minor employees (under 18). It defaults to federal law for breaks offered to employees 18 years and older.
New Jersey Break Laws for Minors
Minor employees (under the age of 18) must receive at least a 30-minute break when working 5 or more consecutive hours.
New Jersey Break Laws for Mothers
The state requires reasonable accommodations for nursing mothers. Nursing mothers must be provided with reasonable breaks and a room to express breast milk. The location cannot be a toilet stall.
New Jersey Day of Rest Laws
No day of rest law is in place in New Jersey.
New Jersey Break Room Requirements
Employers are not required to provide a break room.
New Jersey 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 New Jersey Break Law FAQs
How early can I take my lunch break in New Jersey?
Unless you are a minor employee, a lunch break is not required to be provided by your employer. Any meal break offered (and the timing) would be based on employer discretion.
How many breaks in a 6-hour shift in New Jersey?
Minor employees would receive one 30-minute break during a 6-hour shift. No break requirement is in effect for employees ages 18 and over.
How many breaks in an 8-hour shift in New Jersey?
Minor employees would receive one 30-minute break during an 8-hour shift. No break requirement is in effect for employees ages 18 and over.
How many breaks in a 12-hour shift in New Jersey?
Minor employees would receive one 30-minute break during a 12-hour shift. No break requirement is in effect for employees ages 18 and over.
Is it legal to work 7 days straight in New Jersey?
Yes, it is legal to work 7 days straight in New Jersey.
Can I waive my lunch break in New Jersey?
Since there is no law around providing meal breaks to adult employees, the ability to waive an employer-offered break would depend on company policy.
The content on this site is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by location and change frequently; we make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, or currency of any information on this site. Always seek the advice of a licensed legal professional regarding your specific situation.
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