Mandatory Union Roll Call Pay: DOL Opinion Letter FLSA2026-3
Quick answer: Mandatory pre-shift roll call generally is work time when employees attend for the employer’s benefit. A collective bargaining agreement cannot simply label compensable time unpaid.
The question presented
FLSA2026-3 involved employees required to attend a 15-minute roll call before each scheduled shift. The meeting communicated assignments and information related to their work.
Why the time counted
Required meetings and briefings generally are hours worked when attendance is mandatory and the activity primarily benefits the employer.
Collective bargaining limits
Unions and employers can negotiate many compensation terms, but private agreements generally cannot waive minimum FLSA rights.
Overtime example
- Five roll calls × 15 minutes = 75 minutes
- 75 minutes = 1.25 hours
- A worker with 40 scheduled hours has 41.25 total hours
- Potential overtime: 1.25 hours
Audit checklist
- List all required meetings
- Record actual attendance
- Add time to weekly totals
- Review contractual premium clauses
- Correct weeks over 40
- Preserve schedules and records
Frequently Asked Questions
Is mandatory roll call paid?
Generally yes.
Can a union waive the time?
A contract generally cannot waive statutory minimum rights.
Does 15 minutes matter?
Repeated periods can create significant overtime.
Are voluntary meetings always unpaid?
Only when all exclusion conditions are met.
Can premiums offset overtime?
Certain qualifying premiums may be creditable.
Official Sources
This article is for general educational purposes and is not legal, tax, accounting, payroll, or employment advice. Rules can change and may differ by state, locality, occupation, employer, and employee circumstances.
This calculator is for educational purposes only. Consult your employer or a labor attorney for advice specific to your situation.