Two recently passed federal laws are expected to greatly enhance the rights and protections of pregnant workers in their workplaces, as President Biden signed them into law at the end of 2022. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and the PUMP Act, in tandem, streamline access to reasonable accommodations from employers for pregnant women and those who recently gave birth, allaying concerns about any negative career consequences for having children. These laws seek to offer pregnant workers more comfort and job security while also enabling them to take advantage of their rights. If you faced any discrimination as a pregnant employee, seek the help of employment law attorneys in New York.
Pregnant Workers Fairness Act: Protections and Accommodations for Pregnant Employees
Employers with fifteen or more employees will be required to provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant workers, those who have recently given birth, and those suffering from medical complications related to pregnancy and childbirth under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. The law is set to come into effect later this year. The accommodations are intended to help women continue working during pregnancy without the need for maternity leave and prevent employers from forcing women to take paid or unpaid leave if they are still able to perform their essential job functions.
PUMP Act: Providing Accommodations for Breastfeeding Women at Work
The PUMP Act is an act that aims to support breastfeeding employees by requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations for employees who need to pump breast milk for their infants. The law mandates that employers provide facilities and time for pumping milk, with the time spent pumping being considered as work hours. An important aspect of the PUMP Act is that it provides protection for all employees, regardless of whether they are covered under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
How New Laws Can Help Pregnant and Postpartum Workers Maintain Employment:
With these laws in place, you will have stronger protections against discrimination and more options to seek compensation if you do experience any discrimination. If you ever experience pregnancy discrimination at your workplace, it’s important to consult with a lawyer who has expertise in handling workplace discrimination cases. They can help you understand your legal options and pursue the best course of action.
Final Thoughts:
If you face discrimination related to pregnancy or childbirth, seeking the assistance of experienced employment law attorneys is crucial to understanding your legal options and protecting your rights. These new laws offer much-needed reassurance to pregnant and postpartum employees and are an important step toward ensuring that all workers are treated fairly and equitably in the workplace.
