Effective June 18th 2024: The EEOC’s Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)
The federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), aims to protect pregnant workers from discrimination in the workplace. It requires employers with 15 or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant workers, similar to those provided to individuals with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
These accommodations might include allowing employees to drink water, take additional restroom or food/drink breaks, changes to work duties, schedules, or the work environment to ensure the health and safety of pregnant employees. The PWFA prohibits employers from discriminating against pregnant workers in hiring, firing, promotions, or other employment decisions. Employers must also provide notice to employees about their rights under the PWFA.
To ensure compliance with the PWFA, employers should update their policies and educate managers and other relevant staff on the presumptively reasonable accommodations, limitations on requesting documentation, and the importance of prompt accommodation.
Reach out to us if you have additional questions around compliance or want us to create a policy for your workplace.
