Women Shouldn’t Have to Choose Between a Healthy Pregnancy and a Job
We need to stand up for women like Hilda Guzman in Long Island, who was told she couldn’t get “special treatment” at work because she was pregnant. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act will ensure that pregnant workers have access to reasonable workplace accommodations to continue safely working. Most reasonable accommodations will cost employers zero dollars and save money from reduced workforce turnover—which is good for everyone’s bottom line.
Three-quarters of women entering the workforce will become pregnant during their careers. And today, women make up almost half of the workforce. Some women—especially those in strenuous jobs—will face a conflict between the physical demands of their work and their pregnancy.
Reasonable job modifications for pregnant workers are a public health necessity. Employers should make the same types of reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers, such as allowing them to sit on a stool or carry a bottle of water, that they do for other workers who require temporary adjustments for their health.
Pregnancy-related adjustments at work promote family economic security. The ability to continue working while pregnant allows women to maintain income and seniority while also accessing advancement opportunities.