OR SB1044

Excludes meal periods from the definition of "work time" under Oregon's state wage and hour laws (ORS 653.010 to 653.261)

Establishes that employers violating meal period rules are liable to employees for a penalty amount to be determined by the Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor and Industries, with penalties explicitly not considered wages or compensation

Creates a safe harbor for employers when meal periods are shortened by 5 minutes or less, provided the employer encouraged an uninterrupted meal period and did not direct the shortening

Declares an emergency, making the law effective immediately upon the Governor's signature rather than the standard 90-day waiting period