Congress Must Deliver Now for Pregnant Workers

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer

There is a major gap in human rights law in the US – there is no explicit protection from discrimination for workers if they request reasonable accommodations due to pregnancy or childbirth. This is egregious in 2022. Working parents deserve safe working conditions that support them during these critical life transitions, not the risk of abuse and upheaval from their employers. The pandemic has shown us that small changes like remote work, consistent breaks, and flexible schedules are crucial to keep parents and mothers in the workforce. The U.S. Senate can pass national legislation right now to make this a reality immediately. But they’re not acting and ignoring the needs of working families. That needs to end now.

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To: Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer
From: [Your Name]

Parents always deserve to be protected from discrimination, especially during the most vulnerable times in our lives: pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. No one should have to choose between financial security and a healthy pregnancy and baby. It is unacceptable that workers are not explicitly protected by law if they request reasonable accommodations at work. Small changes like relief from heavy lifting and flexible schedules are simple for employers and improve both mental and physical health. Pregnant workers should not be risking mistreatment, retaliation, or even termination for having their needs met. Families need you to prioritize pregnant people and bring the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act to a vote. Parents are tired of having our needs put at the back of the line. Congress needs to deliver for women and families now and pass the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act.