A bill requiring Colorado employers to provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant employees has passed both the Colorado House and the Senate and is headed to Governor John Hickenlooper’s desk.
Employers already must provide reasonable accommodations for conditions and complications related to pregnancy that meet the definition of “disability” under federal or state law. The new bill would require employers to reasonably accommodate restrictions or limitations related to pregnancy that do not rise to the level of disabilities.
Examples of restrictions or needs that might fall under the new bill include extra water breaks, seating during work time, and lifting restrictions. The bill requires employers and pregnant employees to engage in an interactive process similar to the process followed in cases of disability accommodation.
If Governor Hickenlooper signs the bill, it likely would take effect in August 2016. Stay tuned for updates on the status of the legislation.