This bill mandates that every employer in Kansas provide meal and rest periods for employees, establishing specific requirements based on the length of the work period. Employers must offer a meal period of at least 30 continuous minutes for work periods of six hours or more, and if not provided, they must pay the employee for that time. The bill also outlines the number of required rest periods based on the length of the work period, ensuring that these breaks are separate from meal periods. Exemptions are allowed under certain conditions, such as industry practices or unforeseen circumstances, but these do not apply to employees under the age of 16.
Additionally, the bill prohibits employers from coercing employees into waiving their meal periods and outlines the conditions under which an employee may voluntarily waive their meal period, including the requirement for written consent and the ability to revoke the waiver. Violations of these provisions can result in penalties, including fines of up to $2,000 for coercion. The bill emphasizes the importance of employee rights regarding meal and rest periods, aiming to enhance workplace conditions and ensure compliance with labor standards.