Requiring employers to provide access to a sufficient space for nursing mothers and reasonable break time.
Impact
The legislation amends existing labor laws to bolster protections for nursing employees, requiring that they be provided reasonable break times—approximately 30 minutes for every three hours worked. Employers must now develop and communicate policies regarding these provisions to their employees. Given its alignment with state public health objectives, SB69 is expected to promote maternal and child health by supporting the continuation of breastfeeding practices, which are known to have significant health benefits.
Summary
Senate Bill 69, titled 'An Act requiring employers to provide access to a sufficient space for nursing mothers and reasonable break time,' mandates that employers facilitate a conducive environment for nursing mothers to express milk during work hours. The bill outlines clear provisions that employers with six or more employees must adhere to, ensuring that designated areas for nursing are accessible, clean, and private. This measures not only affirm the rights of nursing mothers but also promote public health standards within the workplace.
Contention
Despite its intentions, the bill has faced scrutiny regarding its potential financial impact on businesses. Critics have raised concerns about the 'undue hardship' exemption—which may allow employers to sidestep compliance if they can showcase significant difficulties in providing these accommodations. Specific definitions of what constitutes such hardships are vague, creating uncertainty about enforcement and compliance. Moreover, the fiscal implications remain indeterminable, with potential increases in state and local expenditures related to implementing the bill's requirements, particularly for businesses without existing spaces for nursing mothers.
Requiring an employer to provide reasonable break time and accommodations for an employee who is breastfeeding the employee’s child to express breast milk for the child. (FE)
Requiring an employer to provide reasonable break time and accommodations for an employee who is breastfeeding the employee’s child to express breast milk for the child. (FE)
Requiring certain non-public schools or education service providers that accept public funds to perform background checks on all employees and volunteers.