Pregnant Workers in Kentucky
The Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness conducted an HIA to analyze the potential health effects of the Kentucky Pregnant Workers’ Act. The bill proposed to ensure reasonable workplace accommodations for women during pregnancy, such as reducing heavy lifting, bending, or standing and exposure to chemicals, heavy metals, and loud noises; providing consistent access to water; and designating a safe private space for pumping breast milk.
The study found that making such accommodations for pregnant employees, especially those who work in manufacturing or other industries that require manual labor, can protect against negative health outcomes for women and their unborn children. Further, enabling women to continue working during pregnancy safeguards a critical source of income for many families.
Outcome
The HIA helped inform decision-makers as well as various chambers of commerce about the health benefits of the Kentucky Pregnant Workers’ Act, which became law in June 2019.
More Information
Organization Web Site:
https://louisvilleky.gov/government/center-health-equity/health-impact-assessments
Contact Email:
Related links:
https://truthout.org/articles/kentucky-becomes-25th-state-to-protect-pregnant-employees-at-work/
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Status:Completed
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Publication date:2019, February
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Decision-making levels:State
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Sectors:Labor and employment
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Additional topic areas:Human resources policies, benefits, Legislation
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Drivers of health:Employment, Family and social support, Diet and physical activity, Income and wealth
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Affected populations:Other
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Community types:Rural, Suburban, Tribal, Urban
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Research methods:Literature review, Qualitative research, Quantitative research
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Funding source:Other funding