The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act is a recent legislation that safeguards pregnant employees against workplace discrimination and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for their pregnancy-related needs. This impartial summary highlights key points for employers to consider:

Non-discrimination: The law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

Reasonable accommodations: Employers must provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant workers, ensuring they can perform their job duties without jeopardizing their health or the health of their baby. Accommodations can include modified tasks, temporary job transfers, or adjustments to work schedules.

Interactive process: Employers are encouraged to engage in an interactive process with pregnant employees to determine appropriate accommodations. This involves a dialogue to understand the employee’s needs and identify feasible solutions.

Undue hardship: While employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations, they are not obligated to make accommodations that would impose an undue hardship on their business. Factors such as the size of the business, financial resources, and operational limitations are considered in determining undue hardship.

Notification and education: Employers should inform employees about their rights under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and provide education on the policies and procedures related to accommodations. Clear communication helps foster a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Compliance: Employers should review and update their policies and practices to ensure compliance with the law. This may involve revising anti-discrimination policies, training supervisors and managers, and establishing procedures for addressing accommodation requests.

It is essential for employers to familiarize themselves with the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, understand their obligations, and take proactive steps to create a workplace that values and supports pregnant employees while adhering to legal requirements.