What do I do about new no "break" rules at my job in illinois?

by **berwin** » Thu Oct 27, 2011 1:22 am

I work at a restaurant/bar. I'm a bartender. I work 9 hour shifts. There is a new rule in place that no one is allowed to eat or smoke during a shift. I understand that breaks are rare in this industry, but I've never had such a strict employer. I'm familiar with labor laws that entitle full time employees, 2 fifteen minute breaks and at least a half hour lunch/dinner break. I'm afraid to contact the state as I fear giving away my identity, which would eventually get me fired. What do I do? I can't go 9 hours without a break! But I really like my job and my co-workers so I don't want to leave.

P.S. I''m also speaking on behalf of my co-workers. We are all really upset about the new rules.

by **adare** » Thu Oct 27, 2011 1:29 am

Sorry, but there are no such laws. Employers are not required to offer any breaks during work hours. They are only required to pay employees if they do have breaks. If there is a meal break (over 20 minutes) employers are not required to pay for them.

You deal with it, leave, or form a union to demand breaks. Those are your options.

by **scirwode** » Thu Oct 27, 2011 1:31 am

there are no federal laws that says any adult in any state gets breaks of any kind.
about half the states say you must get a meal or rest break, IL Is not one of those states.
your employer is correct you are not entitled to any breaks if chooses not to give one.

by oz » Thu Oct 27, 2011 1:37 am

Best thing to do is find another job - nine hours is a long time to go without a break - and I hope he is PAYING you for those nine hours!!! Why are you worried about giving your identity away? You are not the only one who is being affected by this new rule! What's the guy going to do? Fire ALL of you!?? Check your State's rules and regs for employees and breaks - you can do this on your own without giving out your name. Just ask - hypothetically - what those rules are!!

by **nissim42** » Thu Oct 27, 2011 1:42 am

Refer them to the federal labor laws. Regardless of industry they have to give you breaks including a lunch or dinner after so many hours. Now they can say no eating on the floor in uniform but they can not prevent a lunch break without being turned in for violating labor laws which brings fines and possible closure of the business as well as tons of unwanted press. Just plan to eat elsewhere.

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