Supreme Court Issues Brinker Decision on Meal/Rest Periods

(April 13, 2012) The California Supreme Court released on April 12 its long-awaited decision in a case involving employers' obligations relating to meal and rest breaks, Brinker Restaurant Corp. v. Superior Court.
Erika Frank, California Chamber of Commerce general counsel and vice president of legal affairs, commented on the ruling: “Employers have finally received some much-needed clarity in a common-sense decision from the California Supreme Court that will provide certainty and flexibility to employers and employees, allowing them to effectively manage their workload and serve their customers and clients.
“One of the most significant benefits of this ruling is that it will reduce employers’ exposure to costly and frivolous litigation.”
Senate Bill Requires Prescription for Common Cold Medicine
Opponents Say SB 315 Could Increase Health Care Costs
(January 11, 2012) SB 315 (Wright; D-Inglewood), a bill that requires individuals to get a prescription for pseudoephedrine products that are now sold over-the-counter, is the subject of the latest edition of CalChamber News. The bill is scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Health Committee this afternoon. Top Story
CalChamber News Network
The CalChamber news network project, “CalChamber News,” aims to keep CalChamber members and others informed of public policy issues having an impact on the job climate and economy.
The news videos are narrated by Kevin Riggs, former longtime political reporter for KCRA-TV.
The first installment, released August 15, focused on “job killing” legislation that remained active as California legislators returned to work after the summer break.
The second installment, released August 29, focused on misplaced legislative priorities, using as an example a nonsense bill to require anyone hiring a domestic worker—including babysitters and nannies—to provide a duty-free, 30-minute meal period at or before five hours of work and a 10-minute uninterrupted rest period at or before four hours of work.
The third installment, released October 13, highlighted the success of the longstanding “job killer” program.