Pregnancy Accommodations at Work: How the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act Protects You
If you’re pregnant and working, there’s a new law on your side—and it’s a game-changer.
There’s one law we talk to almost all of our parents about—and surprisingly, it’s not FMLA. It’s newer, more useful, and way more inclusive. (Especially since less than half of Americans even qualify for FMLA.)
It’s called the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), and almost anyone who’s pregnant will qualify. All you need to do is work for an employer that has a minimum of 15 employees, and you’re eligible.
Ratified into law in June 2023, PWFA gives anyone who is affected by their pregnancy or recent pregnancy the right to ask for reasonable accommodations at work—anything you need to stay safe, healthy, and comfortable during pregnancy and postpartum.
This could be something simple, like a chair so you’re not on your feet all day, more frequent bathroom or snack breaks, or a water bottle at your desk. It could also be a closer parking spot if walking long distances is tough. One person we worked with used it to shift their schedule so they could make it to prenatal appointments without losing hours.
I know. It seems like these would be no-brainers. And it is a little sad that we need a law to require basic human decency. But for so many pregnant people, having this legal protection is critical.
One accommodation that we frequently talk to parents about is that you can request time off as an accommodation even if you don’t qualify for job-protected leave through FMLA or your state. This is huge if your employer is threatening to fire you for taking time off (and if they are… maybe it’s time to find a new job. They don’t deserve you).
You might simply say: “I need additional time to recover from childbirth, and I’m requesting leave as a pregnancy-related accommodation through PWFA.” Legally, your employer is required to respond, and unless it would cause undue hardship (like, the company is going to go bankrupt if you sit instead of stand), they have to provide it. Get it in writing. Always in writing.
This doesn’t mean you’ll get everything you ask for. But it does mean the law is on your side. You have the right to advocate for yourself—and your employer has a legal obligation to listen.
Ask for what you need. You’re entitled to it. And most of the time, what you’re asking for is totally reasonable—and long overdue.
If you’re an employer reading this? A little flexibility and kindness go a long way. These accommodations are small, but mean a lot.
Hello, Bundle helps new and expecting parents navigate parental leave so they can take the maximum amount of paid parental leave possible when they welcome a child into their family. We provide daily parental leave tips and tricks on TikTok and Instagram, and offer personalized support across the U.S. through consulting calls, custom parental leave calendars, and PDF parental leave guides. Get support in your state here.
