Bill > S0361

This bill updates Rhode Island's fair employment practices law to explicitly include menopause and menopause-related conditions alongside existing protections for pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions. The bill expands employers' obligations to reasonably accommodate employees experiencing menopause, such as by providing more frequent breaks, modified work schedules, or temporary job transfers. Specifically, the law now requires employers to: 1) not refuse reasonable accommodations for menopause-related conditions, 2) avoid requiring leave if another accommodation is possible, 3) not deny employment opportunities based on menopause accommodation needs, and 4) provide written notice about these rights to employees. The bill defines "related conditions" to include managing vasomotor symptoms (such as hot flashes), and maintains existing provisions about what constitutes undue hardship for employers. The law aims to protect employees from discrimination and ensure they can continue working effectively while experiencing menopause-related challenges, similar to existing protections for pregnant workers. The bill takes effect immediately upon passage.

Labor and Employment

https://status.rilegislature.gov/