In an article published on 2/10, Attorney Rebecca Palmer discusses paid prenatal leave and how its absence in Florida creates inequities for pregnant workers.

“Like most states, Florida does not offer paid prenatal leave, relying instead on federal protections under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which provides eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for medical or family reasons, including pregnancy and childbirth,” writes Plamer. “Unfortunately, private-sector companies in Florida need 50 or more employees to qualify for FMLA provisions, leaving many workers, particularly those employed by small businesses, ineligible for its protections.”

Rebecca highlights New York’s recent implementation of mandatory paid prenatal leave as a model, contrasting it with Florida’s reliance on the FMLA, which often leaves low-income and small business employees without adequate protection.  Rebecca states that Florida businesses can take proactive steps, such as offering flexible work arrangements and comprehensive wellness plans, to support expecting mothers and improve overall company culture and recruitment.

“As women’s health advocates and policymakers work to implement more comprehensive wellness solutions, Florida businesses have a unique opportunity to take proactive steps in supporting expecting employees. One simple step is the adoption of flexible work arrangements, including remote work, adjusted schedules, or job-sharing,” writes Palmer.