Is there currently any labor law, federal or local that states a minimum amount of time required between two shifts? We're in a holiday crunch right now and in some cases people are getting less than 5 hours in between shifts. Any help is appreciated.

For general employment, no, there is no state or Federal law. (I can't address local since I have no idea where in the state you are.)

There are industry specific exceptions so for a definite answer, you would need to indicate what industry you are in.

I work for an online retailer. I'm not really in this predicament as my duties aren't customer service oriented at all. However I do have associates in other departments that are subject to these last minute policy changes.

In addition, our employee handbook clearly states that we are to work 1/2 day on Christmas Eve (officially recognized on Dec 22, according to our handbook) this written policy is being ignored and they are mandating overtime for our Customer Service Department on that day (Friday), and also on the following day. Is this legal to overlook official written policy?

I appreciate the quick response. I've been searching for an online reference and haven't really found the answers to these questions. The members and moderators on this site seem to be very knowledgable so I figured I'd ask here.

Every handbook I've ever seen has language that permits management to change the policies and procedures contained therein if circumstances warrant it. In any event, unless the handbook rises to the level of a bona fide, enforceable contract (which is unlikely) management can make changes as needed.

That's unfortunate. Thank you both for your response.

In addition, our employee handbook clearly states that we are to work 1/2 day on Christmas Eve (officially recognized on Dec 22, according to our handbook) this written policy is being ignored and they are mandating overtime for our Customer Service Department on that day (Friday), and also on the following day. Is this legal to overlook official written policy?

No, it is not illegal for a company to violate its own policy and this case illustrates why what is in writing sometimes makes little sense. Christmas Eve is the day before Christmas. Many businesses here shut down at noon time. Even most retailers are closed by 5 PM. To "observe" Christmas Eve three days before Christmas in strict compliance with the handbook makes no sense for a retailer that could expect quite a few sales on Friday and Saturday.