The finalized federal regulations published on Monday confirm that workers are entitled to time off and other job accommodations, including for abortions, under the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. The law, which passed with bipartisan support in December 2022, requires most employers with 15 or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related medical conditions. This includes time off for abortions, recovery, medical appointments, and other related issues.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) upheld the inclusion of abortion provisions in its final rules, despite criticism from some conservatives. The law aims to bridge gaps in existing protections for pregnant workers and ensure that they are not forced to choose between their health and their job. Labor advocates have praised the law for addressing the needs of women of color who often work in physically demanding jobs and face challenges in obtaining necessary accommodations.
While Republican lawmakers and anti-abortion activists have raised objections to the EEOC’s stance on abortion, supporters of the provision argue that it is a crucial addition to protect the health and rights of pregnant workers. The regulations highlight the types of accommodations pregnant workers can request, aiming to provide clarity for both employers and employees. Overall, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act represents a significant step towards ensuring workplace equality and support for pregnant individuals in the United States.