It has come to our attention lately that quite a few of you have been stretching your lunch breaks, from the 45 minutes provided by company policy to an hour or more. This memorandum is to remind everyone of our policy, and ask you all to adhere to it.
Lunch breaks for full-time workers are mandated by law in many states, and even when not mandated, employers commonly provide them as a matter of common sense, improving both workplace morale and productivity (Workplace Fairness). Our lunch break policy is stated in the employee manual that all of you have, and both our policy and the legal requirements in this state are posted on the lunchroom wall.
I understand that once in a while someone will run a few minutes over the 45 minute break provided by policy. Don't let it become habitual! I greatly prefer NOT to have to introduce time clocks, time logs, or other similar burdens on you. You all put out a great effort, and you have made this company what it is. Therefore, I hope that this word to the wise will be sufficient. Enjoy your break, but keep an eye on the clock, so that we can maintain the current flexible and informal policy.
"Meal and Rest Breaks." Workplace Fairness, 2006.