March is Women's History Month, a time to honor and celebrate the incredible contributions women have made -- and continue to make -- to Minnesota's labor force. From the fields, factories, classroom and constructions sites, women have been at the forefront of shaping our economy, advocating for fair labor practices and advocating for workplace rights for all.

Minnesota passed the Women's Economic Security Act (WESA) in 2014, which strengthened workplace protections and flexibility for pregnant and lactating employees, expanded employment opportunities for workers in high-wage, high-demand occupations and reduced the gender pay gap through increased enforcement of equal pay laws.

Key WESA highlights include:

• Wage disclosure protections -- ensuring employees can discuss wages without fear of retaliation.
• Pregnancy accommodation -- requiring reasonable accommodations for expectant mothers, such as sitting or water breaks.
• Expanded sick leave use -- allowing employees to use sick leave to care for extended family members.

• Attend our WESA webinar March 18. Register for the webinar.
• Share your story! Do you have a personal story about how WESA has positively impacted your life or career? Whether it is through expanded family leave, stronger workplace protections, improved pay equity or access to affordable child care, your experience could inspire others and help highlight the act's powerful impact on women in Minnesota. Your story may be featured in our April Wage and Hour Bulletin.
• Learn more about WESA protections at mn.gov/newparents.

It is important that employees and employers know labor laws about rest and meal breaks to promote a healthier work environment and avoid legal issues.

Meal breaks

In Minnesota, labor laws stipulate that employees who work eight or more consecutive hours must be given sufficient time to eat a meal. Here's what the laws cover.

• Unpaid breaks:  Meal breaks do not have to be paid, but employees must be completely relieved of their duties during this time. This means no folding napkins, food preparation, washing dishes or any work-related tasks.
• Adequate time:  Employers should provide enough time for employees to eat without feeling rushed. A well-rested employee is more productive and satisfied with their job.

Rest breaks

Rest breaks are also an essential part of maintaining a healthy work environment. According to Minnesota labor laws an employer must:

• allow each employee adequate time from work within each four consecutive hours of work to use the nearest convenient restroom; and
• provide employees with restroom time and sufficient time to eat a meal, and if the break is fewer than 20 minutes in duration, it must be counted as hours worked.

Scheduling regular rest breaks helps prevent fatigue and burnout, leading to a more efficient and motivated workforce. For more information about breaks, see Minnesota Statutes 177.253 and 177.254, and Minnesota Rules 5200.0120.