Pregnant workers in New York are now entitled to at least 20 hours of paid leave for prenatal medical appointments under a new law that took effect Wednesday. Gov. Kathy Hochul emphasized that the policy aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.
The law covers private-sector employees, allowing leave for medical exams, pregnancy care, and fertility treatments. Employers cannot request medical documentation, and the policy is separate from standard sick leave benefits.
Hochul called the initiative a critical step in ensuring pregnant workers don’t have to choose between their health and their paycheck.
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