What Is Pregnancy Disability Leave In California?
In California, pregnancy disability leave permits expecting mothers a leave of work for a strict period. Here’s everything you need to know about California’s pregnancy disability leave laws.
California has implemented laws to grant pregnant women the opportunity to leave work during the critical points of their pregnancy. An employer and employee understand the process and honor California’s laws.
California Pregnancy Disability Leave Requirements
To receive pregnancy disability leave in California, expecting mothers must follow a specific process.
The following requirements must be honored by both the employer and pregnant employee:
- The employee is allowed four months of leave per pregnancy for pregnancy, childbirth, or a pregnancy-related medical concern,
- The pregnant employee is allowed to take their leave during any point of pregnancy,
- The company must make pregnancy disability leave available if it employs five or more employees (part or full time), or
- Other relevant circumstances.
Related: Workplace Religious Discrimination in California: Your Rights
What Constitutes California Pregnancy Disability Leave?
If a pregnant employee experiences any of the following, they may start their pregnancy disability leave:
- Severe morning sickness,
- Doctor-ordered bed rest,
- Childbirth or recovery,
- Loss or end of pregnancy, or
- Pre or postnatal care.
Receiving Pregnancy Disability Leave in California
If an expectant mother seeks pregnancy disability leave in California, under most circumstances, they must:
- Notify their employer 30 days before leaving,
- Provide an estimate of leave duration, or
- Submit a health care provider’s written certification of the situation (if the employer requires such).
Related: PTO For Part-Time Employees in California
Payment During Pregnancy Disability Leave in California
During a mother’s pregnancy disability leave in California, the employer may require her to use her sick hours. One may also utilize vacation hours or any other paid leave opportunity. In some circumstances, the expectant mother may utilize State Disability Insurance to replace her salary throughout her leave.
The employer must continue to pay for any health benefits before pregnancy leave.
FAQs about Pregnancy Disability Leave in California
Can an employer fire their employee for requesting PDL?
An employer cannot fire their employee for requesting pregnancy disability leave in California.
Can I request accommodations from my employer while I am pregnant or returning from PDL?
An employer may need to meet any accommodation requests related to an employee’s pregnancy.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one would like to learn more about California Pregnancy Disability Leave, get your free consultation with one of our Employment Attorneys in California today!