The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) became law on June 27, 2023. This law protects the rights of pregnant workers. Employers need to know what they must do to follow the law and support their employees.
What employers need to do under the PWFA
The PWFA says that employers must give reasonable accommodations to workers who have limitations because of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical issues. Reasonable accommodations can be things like changing work schedules, giving extra breaks, or offering temporary light-duty work. Employers need to talk with their employees to find solutions that help them without causing major problems for the business.
Protecting workers from discrimination
The PWFA makes sure that employers cannot treat pregnant workers unfairly. Employers cannot refuse to hire, demote, or fire someone because they are pregnant. The law also says employers cannot punish employees for asking for accommodations. It is important for employers to make decisions without any pregnancy-related bias to stay within the law.
Who does the PWFA apply to?
The PWFA applies to public and private employers with 15 or more employees. This means most medium and large businesses must follow the law. Smaller businesses might not have to follow the PWFA, but they should still try to create a safe and supportive place for pregnant employees.
How employers can follow the PWFA
Employers can follow the PWFA by updating their policies to include pregnancy accommodations. It is important to train managers so they know how to handle requests for accommodations. Employers should also keep records of all communication with pregnant workers to show they are following the law if there is a complaint.
Why supporting pregnant workers matters
Following the PWFA is not just about avoiding legal trouble—it also helps create a positive workplace. Supporting pregnant workers with reasonable accommodations helps keep good employees, boosts morale, and makes the workplace better for everyone. When employers care about their employees’ well-being, they build a stronger, more loyal team.
By following the PWFA and making needed changes, employers can create a more supportive and welcoming workplace that benefits both the workers and the business.
