Labor Commissioner Angela Bradstreet hosts public meal and rest break forum

Recently appointed California Labor Commissioner, Angela Bradstreet hosted a public forum today on the campus of California State University, Sacramento on the meal and rest break period.  Representatives from the employer community, members from organized labor and the general public all voiced their concern.

Joining Commissioner Bradstreet on the panel included Deputy Labor Commissioner Lupe Alvarez and Stephanie Watkins, who is the Legislative Director/Counsel for the Department of Labor Standards and Enforcement (DLSE). 

Through much of the early part of the meeting, there seemed to be some disconnect on what employers are seeking in the realm of reform, as several employees expressed concern that employers were attempting to take away their meal and rest break.  Thankfully, several employer representatives stepped up and made it clear that employers are only seeking clarification and flexibility in the law.

A representative from our staff was on hand to take notes in preparation for the next public forum that the Commissioner will be hosting on Thursday, August 9 at California State University, Northridge from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.  CALSAGA will voice our concern on behalf of the private security industry and we encourage all members to attend and make public comments.  Click here for additional information on the August 9 event in Southern California.

We apologize to those members in Northern California who might have wanted to attend the forum in Sacramento, but the DLSE announced that they were going to hold these forum earlier in week, which really didn't give us much time to coordinate our efforts.

Lastly, for those who want to submit written comments to the DLSE, you can send comments until the close of business on Friday, August 31.  Send all comments to:

Chief Counsel, Division of Labor Standards Enforcement, P.O. Box 420603, San Francisco, CA 94142

Comments

[Timothy Leyfer]

I have been a security guard since 1995. During that time I have never had a recognized lunch or break period. If I take a break or lunch and receive a call from the client, I must leave my lunch and answser the call.

To be sure, I wish that something could be done about this issue.

[Andrew]

Timothy, this is an issue you should address first by looking at your employee handbook and company policies, then asking your supervisor. Every company has an obligation to live up to the prevailing law in the state, for example Labor Code 512.

What you are describing may be an on-duty meal period, if your employer has made an agreement with you to this effect.

I would encourage you (and others) to look at the state Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE) Web site at: http://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/DLSE-FAQs.htm

Law-abiding companies lose both contracts and jobs when others choose to undercut us by breaking the law. I believe that CALSAGA is trying to clarify the situation so that it is easier for its members to obey the law and take care of our employees and clients.