Is there a law stating that I have to give an lunch break or any kind of break to a non-exempt employee or a "direct labor" employee if the employee's are all over 18 years old?

Also - Is it lawful to force an employee to take a lunch break?

Is there a law stating that I have to give an lunch break or any kind of break to a non-exempt employee or a "direct labor" employee if the employee's are all over 18 years old? No. In fact NC only requires that meal breaks be provided to employees under 16 years of age.

Is it lawful to force an employee to take a lunch break? Absolutely. The employer determines the hours of work and that includes whether there is a mandatory meal and/or rest break.