Worker Rights and Support Act

Key Points

• The bill would require employers to provide a 30-minute meal break for every 6 hours worked. These breaks are generally unpaid, but if a worker cannot leave the premises or is expected to keep working, the employer must pay 1.5 times the worker's regular rate for the entire break period.
• Workers would receive a paid 10-minute rest break for every 4 hours of work, or longer if needed to reach a functioning restroom. These breaks must be paid at the worker's regular rate and count as time worked.
• Employees with medical conditions would get paid breaks of up to 20 minutes each, as needed, when supported by a healthcare provider's communication to the employer.
• Workers can voluntarily waive their meal break, but employers are banned from pressuring or compelling them to do so. The bill also preserves stronger state laws and collective bargaining agreements.
• Employers who violate the new break rules face legal liability. The bill amends existing enforcement provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act so workers can pursue legal or equitable relief.