Are the meal period rules different for minors?
A. The rules are slightly different for minors (employees under 18). They must receive at least a 30-minute meal period no later than five hours and one minute after beginning work. OAR 839-021-0072(2). The “nature or circumstances” exception outlined above applies to 16- and 17-year-olds, but not to 14- and 15-year-olds, who must always receive the required meal period regardless of the nature of the job. OAR 839-021-0072.
