New Hampshire Senate Bill SB68

New Hampshire 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/21
• Refer: 1/19/21
• Report Pass: 2/9/21
• Engrossed: 3/10/21
• Refer: 3/10/21
• Report Pass: 11/15/21

Caption

Requiring an employer to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees.

Impact

The enactment of SB 68 would significantly impact state laws by reinforcing protections for pregnant employees under the New Hampshire laws against discrimination. This reform aims to create a more equitable work environment where pregnancy-related medical needs are acknowledged and facilitated by employers. By mandating reasonable accommodations, such as modified work duties or additional breaks, the bill seeks to enhance the well-being and job security of pregnant workers, promoting gender equity in the labor force.

Summary

Senate Bill 68 focuses on the rights of pregnant employees in the workplace by requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations related to pregnancy or childbirth. The bill extends the definition of discrimination to include any failure by employers to provide such accommodations, making it an unlawful discriminatory practice. This shift in legal perspective emphasizes the need for supportive workplace policies that recognize the unique medical and physical challenges faced by pregnant employees, ensuring they can continue to work without undue hardship during their pregnancy-related conditions.

Contention

Despite the intended protections, there may be points of contention regarding how 'reasonable accommodations' are defined and what constitutes an 'undue hardship' for employers. Critics might argue that some businesses, particularly smaller ones, could face difficulties in implementing such requirements without incurring additional costs or operational challenges. The balance between employee rights and employer responsibilities could be a focal topic of debate as the bill moves through the legislative process, raising questions about the practicality and economic implications for businesses.