Lactation Accommodation

Both California and federal law require you to reasonably accommodate employees who want to express breast milk at work.¹ Employers may not discharge, discriminate or retaliate against employees who exercise their right to lactation accommodations. The Labor Commissioner may issue a citation if you violate this law, subjecting you to civil penalties.

Under the FEHA, the definition of discrimination or harassment due to “sex” includes “breastfeeding and medical conditions related to breastfeeding.” Employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees or job applicants because of breastfeeding and related medical conditions.