Are employers obligated to provide breaks and meal periods?

Yes, employers in the District of Columbia must provide breaks and meal periods to their employees; however, there are several exceptions. The District of Columbia Wage and Hour Law states that employers must provide a 30-minute meal period to employees that are 16 or 17 year old who worked more than five hours in a day. The 30-minute meal period must be unpaid and must take place between the first and fifth hours worked. Only certain employees, such as those in the protective services, are exempt from this requirement. Employers must also provide rest periods for any employee who works more than three hours in a day. These rest periods must be paid and should total a minimum of 20 minutes per day. Additionally, employers must provide reasonable breaks for employees under the age of 16. Finally, companies must provide nursing mothers with breaks and a private place to express milk. The breaks must be provided for up to one year after the employee gives birth and must be reasonable in length. These breaks can be unpaid. In conclusion, employers in the District of Columbia are obligated to provide breaks and meal periods to their employees with some exceptions. It is important for employers to adhere to these laws to ensure that their employees are provided with adequate rest periods.

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