New York State is taking action in supporting moms and babies by offering paid time off for prenatal care or any medical care related to pregnancy.
Starting Jan. 1 all employees working in the private sector were covered by the New York State Paid Prenatal Leave Law. Employees of non-profit organizations are also covered by this law, but federal, state, and local government employees are not covered.
Under this policy employees are entitled to 20 hours of paid prenatal leave per year. Employees must be paid at their regular rate of pay while on leave or at the appropriate minimum wage for their occupation.
Assemblyman Desmond Meeks supports the new policy and thinks it will be beneficial for parents.
“As a father and grandfather, I take pride in this new policy supporting working families in New York State,” Meeks said. “Providing eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of job-protected, paid time off prenatal care ensures that parents have the necessary resources to prioritize their children’s health and wellness without sacrificing financial security.”