The Yankton School Board discussed new policies during Monday’s board meeting, two of which are targeted toward pregnant and nursing mothers who are employed in the district.
The Providing Urgent Material Protections for Nursing Mothers Act (PUMP Act) would provide women who are nursing time and space to express breast milk as frequently as needed for up to a year after giving birth. The area itself would be out of view of the eyes of the public or other employees, and must have access to electricity, sinks, and a place to store milk according to the proposal.
The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) would ensure that the district makes reasonable effort to accommodate any employee’s known restrictions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
Monday’s board meeting was considered a first reading for both policies, and no action was taken on either policy at this time.
