As a reminder, New York State’s mandate to provide paid lactation breaks became effective this week. As of June 19, 2024, employers must provide paid 30-minute breaks to express breast milk – and allow employees to use other existing paid break time or meal time for any time needed in excess of 30 minutes – each time the employee has a reasonable need to express breast milk for up to three years following the birth of a child.
The New York State Department of Labor has released updated materials, including an official Policy on the Rights of Employees to Express Breast Milk, available HERE, which must be provided to all employees: (1) upon hire; (2) annually, thereafter; and (3) upon an employee’s return to work following childbirth. The policy is the minimum required standard; employers may offer further accommodations as suited to their individual workplace. Additional updated guidance for employers and employees can be found HERE.
If you have any questions relating to this e-Alert or need guidance to ensure compliance with New York’s paid lactation break notice or other requirements, please reach out to the NFC Attorney with whom you typically work or call us at 973.665.9100.
