The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)

Section: Benefits & Wellness
Responsible Office: Human Resources
Effective Date: June 18, 2024
Scope: This policy applies to all employees and job applicants of Iona University.

The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) requires a covered entity to provide reasonable accommodations to a qualified employee's or applicant's known limitations related to, affected by, or arising out of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, absent undue hardship on the operation of the business of the covered entity. 

Examples of reasonable accommodations may include, but are not limited to:

• Additional, longer, or more flexible breaks to drink water, eat, rest, or use the restroom.
• Temporary transfer to a less strenuous or hazardous position.
• Modified work schedules or job duties.
• Providing seating or allowing the employee to sit more frequently if their job requires standing.

Prohibition of Discrimination and Retaliation

Iona University prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. Employees are protected from retaliation for requesting or using accommodations.

Requesting Accommodations

Employees who need an accommodation due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions should notify the Office of Human Resources. Iona will engage in an interactive process to determine appropriate accommodations.