Just in time for Mother’s Day, the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) is spotlighting a growing list of resources for working mothers, including nation-leading paid leave benefits, child care support, and career advancement programs.
Governor Kathy Hochul and Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon say these initiatives are helping transform New York into one of the most supportive states in the country for working parents.
Nation’s first paid prenatal leave for working mothers
This year, New York became the first state in the U.S. to mandate Paid Prenatal Leave, providing pregnant workers with 20 hours of paid time off for essential medical care during pregnancy. This benefit applies to part-time and full-time private sector employees and covers:
- Physical exams
- Monitoring and testing
- Medical procedures
- Fertility treatments
- End-of-pregnancy care
Studies show access to regular prenatal care significantly reduces maternal mortality and improves newborn health outcomes.
“As the first mom governor, Governor Hochul knows firsthand the struggles of being a mother in the workforce,” said Commissioner Reardon. “Our policies are helping workplaces become more inclusive for all parents.”
Paid family leave and breastfeeding protections
New York’s Paid Family Leave law provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of job-protected, paid time off for:
- Bonding with a new child
- Caring for a family member with a serious health condition
- Supporting family during active military deployment
In another landmark step for maternal health, employers must now offer 30-minute paid breaks for breast milk expression for up to three years after childbirth.
Expanded maternal health and insurance access
Recent legislation has also expanded maternal health care access by:
- Allowing pregnant individuals to enroll in health insurance without penalties
- Requiring coverage for prenatal vitamins
These changes aim to eliminate financial and access barriers for expectant mothers.
Major investment in child care and tax relief
Child care remains a top priority for the Hochul administration, with $2.2 billion allocated in the 2025 state budget to expand access to affordable care. Additional measures include:
- $110 million for building or renovating child care centers
- Expanded eligibility for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
- An increase to the Child Tax Credit, reaching the highest level in state history
These initiatives are designed to help parents return to work, attend school, or seek training without being held back by child care costs.
Career support and free job training for moms
For mothers looking to reenter or advance in the workforce, NYSDOL offers a variety of support services:
- Career counseling at statewide Career Centers
- A downloadable Salary Negotiation Guide
- Access to registered apprenticeships that offer on-the-job training
- Free online learning through NYSDOL’s Coursera partnership
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