“Examining the Effective Pregnant Worker Fairness Act”

Introduction

Author: Sanaa Davis

Department: UIC Institute for Policy & Civic Engagement

Advisors: Dr. Joseph K. Hoereth, IPCE / Marcus Daniels, Graduate Mentor, IPCE

Abstract: This study examines the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), a landmark legislative measure designed to ensure that employers provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related limitations. Previous federal protections, including the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), have proven insufficient in addressing common pregnancy-related needs due to narrow definitions, burdensome documentation requirements, and conditional applicability. This research employs a policy analysis framework to examine the final regulations issued by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and to evaluate their implications for employer practices, employee health and well- being, and compliance with federal mandates. The analysis encompasses businesses across the United States and highlights the expansion of mandated accommodations such as increased break time, flexible scheduling, and ergonomic workplace modifications. Notably, the study identifies a 10% to 50% increase in legal settlements since the Act’s implementation, likely attributed to the streamlined complaint process and heightened accountability standards. The findings underscore the critical role of timely employer responses, the broad scope of covered conditions, and the enhanced legal protections afforded to pregnant workers, ultimately promoting greater equity and inclusivity in the workplace.

Keywords: Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), workplace equity, employment law, maternal health, labor policy