Maine has enacted legislation (Legislative Document 666) that will require employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with pregnancy-related conditions, unless it would impose an undue hardship on the business. Legislative Document 666 takes effect September 19, 2019.
Under the law, a pregnancy-related condition is defined as a known limitation of an employee’s ability to perform the functions of a job due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including lactation.
Reasonable accommodations for a pregnancy-related condition may include, but are not limited to providing:
· More frequent or longer breaks;
· Temporary modification in work schedules;
· Seating or equipment;
· Temporary relief from lifting requirements;
· Temporary transfer to less strenuous or hazardous work; and
· Breaks and a space to express breast milk in accordance with state law.
Compliance Recommendations:
Maine employers should review their policies, practices, and supervisor training to ensure compliance with Legislative Document 666.
Please contact your dedicated service professional with any questions.