Missouri

In Missouri, pregnant workers and new parents are supported by a combination of federal and state laws, as well as various programs designed to assist them in balancing work and family responsibilities.

Pregnancy and Work
Protection Against Pregnancy Discrimination
Under the federal Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), employers with 15 or more employees are prohibited from discriminating against workers based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. This ensures that pregnant employees are treated the same as other employees with similar abilities or limitations. In Missouri, the Missouri Human Rights Act (MHRA) further reinforces these protections by prohibiting discrimination based on sex, which includes pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.

Workplace Accommodations
The federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) requires covered employers to provide reasonable accommodations for known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship on the operation of the business. Reasonable accommodations might include modifying work duties, providing ergonomic furniture, or allowing more frequent breaks.

Workplace Safety for Pregnant Workers
Employers are obligated to maintain a safe working environment for all employees, including those who are pregnant. If a pregnant worker believes her job poses a risk to her health or that of her unborn child, she can request a workplace accommodation. Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations unless it causes undue hardship.

Taking Time Off Work
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Under federal law, eligible employees can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave per year for specific family and medical reasons, including childbirth and caring for a newborn. Eligibility requirements include:

Employment with a covered employer (private-sector employers with 50 or more employees, public agencies, and public or private elementary or secondary schools).

Having worked for the employer for at least 12 months.

Accumulated at least 1,250 hours of service during the 12 months prior to the leave.

State-Specific Parental Leave
Missouri does not have a state-specific law mandating pregnancy leave. However, Executive Order 17-09 provides up to six weeks of paid parental leave for primary caregivers and three weeks for secondary caregivers among state employees. This leave must be taken within 12 weeks following the birth or adoption of a child.

Returning to Work with a Baby
Break Time for Nursing Mothers
The PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act requires employers to provide reasonable break time and a private, non-bathroom space for employees to express breast milk for up to one year after the child's birth. This federal law applies to most employees, including those in Missouri.

Additionally, Missouri law allows a mother to breastfeed her child in any public or private location where the mother is otherwise authorized to be. Learn more

Parental Rights for Sick or Family Leave
If a child or family member has a serious health condition, eligible employees may qualify for unpaid leave under FMLA to provide care.

Workplace Protections for New Parents
Equal Pay: Missouri law ensures that employees are entitled to equal pay for equal work, regardless of gender or parental status.

Employment Termination: Employers are prohibited from terminating or retaliating against employees for taking protected leave (e.g., FMLA) or requesting pregnancy-related accommodations.

Job Protection: FMLA guarantees that employees can return to their same or an equivalent position after taking parental leave.

Support for Parents in Missouri
Childcare Assistance: The Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program provides financial assistance to eligible families for childcare expenses. This program supports parents who are working, searching for work, or attending school or job training. Learn more

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
TANF provides monthly cash payments to help families with children aged 18 and younger pay for basic needs such as food, clothing, housing, and utilities. Eligibility is based on income and resource limits. Learn more

Flexible Work Policies seeking employment
While not mandated by law, some Missouri employers may offer flexible work arrangements, remote work options, or paid parental leave as part of their benefits packages. Employees are encouraged to consult their employer's human resources department to learn about available options.

These laws and programs aim to support pregnant workers and new parents in Missouri as they balance work and family responsibilities.