My mom and brother both work in the restaurant industry. Many times, they are scheduled for a 12+ hour shift. Is it true that employers are not required to give their employees a break? It seems strange that in this day and age, people can be required to stand and work for 12 hours or more straight, without being allowed to sit down for a minute and have something to eat. In both of their workplaces, people are allowed to go out for a smoke break. However, if you don't smoke, you get nothing. Is this legal?

This seems to be a popular question today but the answer is the same. The state of Florida does not mandate rest periods or meal breaks. This would be a matter of company policy. I know you probably think this is unfair but it is legal. Sorry!

Here are some useful links:
http://www.dol.gov/esa/programs/whd/state/meal.htm
http://www.dol.gov/esa/programs/whd/state/rest.htm