Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): Federal law requiring employers with 50+ employees to provide up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for eligible employees who have worked 1,250 hours in the previous 12 months.
Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA): Federal law prohibiting discrimination based on pregnancy, applying to companies with 15+ employees. Requires equal treatment of pregnant employees in all aspects of employment.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Federal law that may apply to pregnancy-related conditions, requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations for qualifying conditions.
State Family Leave Laws: Various state-specific laws that may provide additional or different protections for maternity leave, including paid family leave in states like California, New York, and New Jersey.
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA): Federal law governing wage, hour, and classification requirements for employees, particularly important for determining contract employee status and benefits eligibility.
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Regulations: Federal regulations ensuring non-discrimination and equal treatment in employment practices, including matters related to pregnancy and maternity leave.
Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA): Federal law governing employee benefits plans, relevant when determining continuation of benefits during maternity leave periods.
