California Supreme Court redefines ‘hours worked’ for security checks and meal breaks

A landmark decision reshapes employer obligations—now, waiting in security lines or trapped on-site during breaks could mean extra pay. Are your workplace policies compliant?

, and Administrator

2025 November 11 . 11:16 AM

1 min read

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California Supreme Court redefines ‘hours worked’ for security checks and meal breaks

In a significant ruling, the California Supreme Court has clarified the definition of 'hours worked' under Industrial Welfare Commission Wage Order No. 16. The court's decision, made on March 25, 2024, addresses time spent by employees waiting in social security lines and taking meal breaks.

The court ruled that time spent waiting in line to pass through a security gate in a personal vehicle is compensable as 'hours worked' if the search is for the employer's benefit and the employee is required to do more than merely present a badge. This reverses a 2014. U.S. Supreme Court decision that deemed such activities non-compensable.

In the case of Huerta v. CSI Electrical Contractors, employees were required to pass through a security gate at the beginning and end of their workday. The court also ruled that even if a collective bargaining agreement exempts employers from the requirements of Wage Order No. 16, employees must be paid a minimum wage for meal periods if the employer prohibits them from leaving the premises.

The California Supreme Court's ruling has important implications for employers and employees alike. It clarifies that time spent waiting in security lines may be compensable, and meal periods must be paid if employees are not allowed to leave the premises. Employers should review their policies and practices to ensure compliance with these new guidelines.