Minnesota’s New Meal and Rest Rules: What Employers Must Do Now

Effective January 1, 2026, Minnesota’s amended meal and rest break requirements take effect. The new law requires employers to provide 15-minute paid rest breaks for every four hours worked and a 30-minute meal break for employees who work six hours or more.

These changes will have wide-ranging implications for Minnesota employers, including updates to workplace policies, timekeeping and payroll practices, employee training, and the use of waivers.

In this presentation, you will learn:

• What the new law requires and how it differs from prior practice
• Practical steps for updating policies and procedures
• Best practices for training managers and employees
• Strategies for handling waivers and minimizing compliance risk

– John H. Lassetter; Littler Mendelson P.C.