The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act: A Victory for Equality in the Workplace

Top 5 Things to Know About the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

In a landmark move towards workplace equality, new legislation called the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) has been passed and will go into effect on June 27, 2023. The PWFA aims to empower pregnant workers by requiring employers to make reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, similar to the accommodations mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This significant step ensures that pregnant women can continue to thrive in their careers while supporting their families. In this blog post, we will delve into the key provisions of the PWFA and the positive impact it will have on pregnant employees across the country.

Top 5 Things to Know About the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act:

1.  It protects pregnant and postpartum workers in every state, including Michigan: The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) extends protection to pregnant workers in all states, ensuring that no matter where they reside, they have legal recourse if they face discrimination or inadequate accommodations in the workplace. This legislation ensures that pregnant workers in Michigan and beyond are afforded the same rights and protections.

2.  It applies to all workers in all industries, working for an employer with at least 15 employees: The PWFA encompasses a wide range of workplaces and industries. Whether you are employed in a small business or a large corporation, as long as your employer has at least 15 employees, you are entitled to the protections and accommodations granted by the PWFA.

3.  It guarantees reasonable accommodations to allow workers to stay healthy and continue working through pregnancy: Under the PWFA, pregnant employees have the right to request reasonable accommodations to ensure their health and well-being during pregnancy. These accommodations can be temporary changes to their job duties that enable them to continue working without compromising their health or safety.

4.  Accommodations can include time off to recover from childbirth, light duty, remote work, special equipment, flexible scheduling for appointments, and more: The PWFA recognizes that every pregnancy is unique, and the necessary accommodations can vary. If prescribed by a doctor, pregnant workers can receive a range of accommodations, such as time off to recover from childbirth, light-duty assignments, remote work options, special equipment or modifications, and flexible scheduling to attend medical appointments.

5.  Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees for requesting anything permitted by the Act: The PWFA not only protects pregnant workers’ rights to reasonable accommodations but also safeguards them against retaliation from their employers. If an employee requests accommodations that are allowed under the Act, the employer cannot engage in any form of retaliation or adverse actions against them. This provision ensures that pregnant workers can assert their rights without fear of negative consequences.

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act represents a significant stride towards workplace fairness and equality. By mandating reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers, the legislation empowers women to pursue their careers, support their families, and assert their rights without fear of discrimination or forced leave. As we embrace the implementation of this groundbreaking legislation, let us continue to work towards creating inclusive work environments where everyone can thrive, irrespective of their life circumstances.

Contact A Michigan Employment Law Attorney to Understand Your Rights

If you believe that you have been subjected to discrimination or denied reasonable accommodations in the workplace due to pregnancy, the Michigan employment law attorneys at Giroux Pappas Trial Attorneys are here to help. Our experienced team is dedicated to fighting for your rights and ensuring justice is served.

Contact us today to discuss your case and take the necessary steps towards obtaining the justice and fair treatment you deserve. Call 248-531-8665.