In Vermont, pregnant employees are entitled to certain accommodations to ensure their health and well-being during pregnancy. These accommodations are designed to prevent discrimination based on pregnancy and provide equal opportunities in the workplace. Here are key points regarding accommodations for pregnant employees in Vermont:

1. Vermont Pregnancy Discrimination Act: The Vermont Fair Employment Practices Act prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant employees. This includes protection against adverse employment actions, such as termination, demotion, or denial of benefits, due to pregnancy.
2. Reasonable Accommodations: Employers in Vermont are required to provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant employees who request them, as long as the accommodations do not impose an undue hardship on the employer. Reasonable accommodations may include:
   • Providing more frequent or longer breaks for rest or bathroom visits.
   • Modifying work schedules or assignments, if feasible.
   • Providing assistance with heavy lifting or physically demanding tasks.
   • Providing a temporary transfer to a less physically demanding position, if available.
   • Providing ergonomic adjustments or modifications to the work environment.
3. Interactive Process: When a pregnant employee requests an accommodation, employers should engage in an interactive process with the employee to determine appropriate accommodations. This process involves discussing the employee’s needs, assessing possible accommodations, and reaching an agreement that meets the needs of both the employee and the employer, to the extent feasible.
4. Notice Requirements: Employers in Vermont are required to notify employees of their rights under the Vermont Pregnancy Discrimination Act, including the right to reasonable accommodations. Employers should ensure that their policies and employee handbooks reflect these rights and provide information on how to request accommodations.
5. Complaints and Enforcement: Pregnant employees who believe they have been subjected to discrimination or denied reasonable accommodations can file complaints with the Vermont Human Rights Commission (VHRC) or pursue legal action. The VHRC investigates complaints of pregnancy discrimination and works to resolve disputes through mediation or formal hearings.

Employers in Vermont should familiarize themselves with the state’s laws regarding accommodations for pregnant employees. They should have policies and procedures in place to address accommodation requests and ensure compliance with the Vermont Fair Employment Practices Act. Open communication, cooperation, and a commitment to treating pregnant employees fairly are essential to creating a supportive work environment for pregnant individuals.