Minnesota Workers Get Clearer Break and Meal Rules

A new year means new laws, and Minnesota is rolling out several updates for 2026, including a clearer and more specific version of the state’s existing rules around work breaks and meal periods.

Clearer Break Requirements for Workers

Under current Minnesota law, employers are required to allow employees “adequate time” for a short break every four hours of work. The law also states that workers must receive “sufficient time” to eat a meal. Starting in 2026, lawmakers are replacing that flexible language with clearer, measurable standards.

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Beginning January 1, 2026, employers will be required to give employees at least 15 minutes for every four hours of consecutive work. That minimum break time may be longer depending on how far an employee must travel to reach the nearest restroom. The change is meant to reduce confusion and improve consistency across workplaces.

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Meal Break Rules Are Also Changing

Minnesota’s updated law also adjusts meal break requirements. Employers must now provide a 30-minute meal break for every six hours of consecutive work. Under the current law, that threshold is eight hours, meaning more workers will qualify for a meal break sooner in their shift.

Who the Law Applies To

The revised law applies to most workers across Minnesota, including those in Duluth and throughout the Northland. However, there are exceptions. Certain agricultural workers, some seasonal day camp staff members, and individuals employed as bona fide executives are not covered.

The law also does not apply to workers covered by a collective bargaining agreement. In unionized workplaces, break and meal times are typically outlined in the contract instead.

Paid Versus Unpaid Breaks

All breaks lasting 20 minutes or less must be paid by the employer. Longer breaks may be unpaid as long as the employee is fully relieved of work duties. Employers are also allowed to require employees to remain on the premises during both breaks and meal periods.

These changes aim to create clearer expectations for both workers and employers as Minnesota enters 2026.