New York to Offer 20 Hours of Paid Prenatal Leave Starting January 1
New York will make history on January 1 by becoming the first state to offer an additional 20 hours of paid leave for pregnant employees. This groundbreaking policy, announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, is designed to provide workers with more access to healthcare without sacrificing their income.
The new policy allows expectant mothers to take 20 hours of paid leave for a range of pregnancy-related appointments, including physical exams, medical procedures, monitoring, testing, and consultations with healthcare providers. It also extends coverage to fertility treatments and end-of-pregnancy care.
Governor Hochul emphasized that the policy aims to ensure no pregnant woman in New York has to choose between their paycheck and necessary medical care, stating, “No pregnant woman in New York should be forced to choose between a paycheck and a check-up.”
This paid leave is automatic, meaning employees do not need to apply for or sign up for additional sick time. Employers are required by law to offer this 20-hour benefit in addition to existing sick leave. However, the policy currently does not extend to employees who wish to attend medical appointments with pregnant spouses or partners.
The new law is another step in New York’s efforts to improve quality of life, offering workers a unique benefit while continuing to prioritize education, healthcare, and individual rights.