As of June 27, 2023, a new EEOC legislation, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) took effect. This momentous law, signed by President Joe Biden last year, bolsters protections for workers experiencing pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, and assures their right to reasonable accommodations in the workplace. At DSI Work Solutions (DSI), we are not just witnessing these progressive changes. We know that DSI’s Job Function Matching® system can help companies actively participate in shaping an inclusive work culture by holding all workers to the same standards relative to their jobs.
The PWFA mandates that employers provide reasonable accommodations to a worker’s known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, unless it imposes an undue hardship on the employer. This act is an extension of the existing protections against pregnancy discrimination under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Chair, Charlotte A. Burrows, underscores the economic security the PWFA will ensure for workers at a critical time in their lives.
DSI is at the forefront of enabling businesses to effectively manage their increasingly diverse workforce’s needs with the Job Function Matching® system (JFM). JFM assures that all employees are held to the same standard, that of the job, and that reasonable accommodations can readily be considered when necessary.
The Job Function Matching® system is a potent tool that helps businesses identify the essential functions of each job role and match them with the physical capabilities of each employee. For expectant employees, this system can provide valuable insights to tailor their job functions or facilitate adjustments that meet their physical needs and wellbeing. Moreover, it can guide employers to ensure that reasonable accommodations do not impose an undue hardship, aligning perfectly with the intent of the PWFA.
The implementation of the PWFA highlights the EEOC’s continuing efforts toward workplace inclusion and equality by not tolerating discrimination. DSI is committed to helping businesses navigate these new directives efficiently by offering our systematic approach. JFM coursework and solutions are designed to foster a supportive environment for all workers, creating a win-win scenario for employees and employers alike.
With the PWFA now in effect, it’s a good time to revisit workplace policies and practices. DSI Work Solutions and the Job Function Matching® system can help employers assure that all of their employees are held to the same standard as required by law- that of the work they are hired to perform, supporting a workplace that is fair and inclusive.
If your interested in learning more about how the Job Function Matching® system can assist with the PWFA and more, here are some useful links:
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