Managers Don't Have To Enforce Lunch Breaks

The California Supreme Court ruled on April 12, 2012 that in California, managers do have to allow lunch breaks, but they do not have to enforce them. What the employees choose to do on their lunch breaks, even if they choose to work, is the employee's choice.

While their decision only applies in California, it is encouraging. Finally the courts are suggesting that businesses treat their employees like adults capable of making their own decisions rather than as children who have to be continually controlled. Maybe the other states will follow.